Pregnenolooni

Pregnenolooni is not a standard term in scientific nomenclature. In most sources, the intended term is pregnenolone, a steroid hormone precursor. Some texts or transliterations may render pregnenolone as pregnenolooni, leading to confusion. There is no widely recognized chemical entity officially named "pregnenolooni" apart from it being a potential misspelling.

Pregnenolone is synthesized in the mitochondria from cholesterol by the enzyme CYP11A1 (P450scc). It serves as the biosynthetic precursor to progesterone, and ultimately to glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens/estrogens, as well as to neurosteroids in the brain.

Biological role: In the brain, pregnenolone acts as a neurosteroid influencing signaling through NMDA and GABA-A receptors; it is implicated in cognition, mood, and stress responses. Peripheral production occurs in adrenal glands and gonads, contributing to systemic steroid hormone pools.

Clinical use and safety: Pregnenolone is sold as an over-the-counter dietary supplement in some countries, but it is not approved as a drug by major regulatory agencies. Evidence for benefits in aging, cognitive function, mood disorders, or fatigue is limited and mixed. Potential risks include hormonal imbalances, interactions with anticoagulants or antidepressants, and pregnancy or breastfeeding caution.

Regulatory and research status: Further high-quality trials are needed to clarify efficacy and safety. Regulatory status varies by country and quality control for supplements can be variable. See also pregnenolone.