17alphahydroxyprogesterone

17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) is a naturally occurring steroid hormone. It is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of all steroid hormones, including androgens, estrogens, mineralocorticoids, and glucocorticoids. In humans, 17OHP is primarily produced in the adrenal glands and the gonads. Its production is regulated by the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland.

17OHP plays a crucial role in the adrenal steroidogenesis pathway. It is synthesized from progesterone and can be further metabolized into androstenedione or 11-deoxycortisol, depending on the specific enzymatic activity. In women, it is also produced by the corpus luteum during the menstrual cycle.

Measuring 17OHP levels in the blood is an important diagnostic tool. Elevated levels can indicate congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a group of genetic disorders affecting the adrenal glands. Specifically, deficiency in the enzyme 21-hydroxylase, the most common form of CAH, leads to a buildup of 17OHP. Monitoring 17OHP is also used to assess the effectiveness of treatment for CAH and to evaluate adrenal function in other contexts. Its levels can fluctuate based on factors like age, time of day, and hormonal status.