CYP7

CYP7 is a family of cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of bile acids in animals. These enzymes are responsible for the initial steps in the conversion of cholesterol into primary bile acids, which are then modified to produce secondary bile acids.

The most well-studied member of the CYP7 family is CYP7A1, which is located in the liver and catalyzes the first committed step in the biosynthesis of bile acids, converting cholesterol into 7-alpha-hydroxycholesterol. This step is considered the rate-limiting step in bile acid production. CYP7A1 is induced by the nuclear receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and repressed by the nuclear receptor constitutive androstane receptor (CAR).

Other members of the CYP7 family, such as CYP7B1, have been identified and are known to be involved in the biosynthesis of oxysterols, which are important signaling molecules in various cellular processes. CYP7B1 is also involved in the metabolism of steroids and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of certain diseases, including lysosomal acid lipase deficiency.

The CYP7 enzymes are encoded by genes located on different chromosomes in different species, including humans, mice, and rats. These genes have been subject to duplicated and diverged evolution, resulting in functional divergence of the enzymes. The study of the CYP7 enzymes has provided insights into the complex regulation of bile acid biosynthesis and its significance in maintaining lipid homeostasis and overall health.