cortisol biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of cortisol, the steroid hormone 11-beta-17,21-trihydroxypregn-4-ene-3,20-dione. Cortisol is synthesized from cholesterol in the adrenal gland and controls carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties. [GOC:BHF, GOC:mah, GOC:rl]

Cortisol biosynthesis is a complex process that takes place in the adrenal glands, specifically in the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex. It is a multi-step process that involves the conversion of cholesterol to cortisol. The process begins with the uptake of cholesterol into the adrenal cortex cells. Cholesterol is then transported to the mitochondria where it undergoes a series of enzymatic reactions catalyzed by specific enzymes. The first step involves the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone by the enzyme cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1). Pregnenolone is then transported to the endoplasmic reticulum where it undergoes further enzymatic reactions. The next step involves the conversion of pregnenolone to progesterone by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD). Progesterone is then converted to 17α-hydroxyprogesterone by the enzyme 17α-hydroxylase (CYP17A1). 17α-hydroxyprogesterone is then converted to 11-deoxycortisol by the enzyme 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2). Finally, 11-deoxycortisol is converted to cortisol by the enzyme 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1). This final step takes place in the mitochondria. Cortisol is then released into the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body where it binds to its receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Cortisol is a steroid hormone that plays a vital role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, stress response, inflammation, and immune function. It is also essential for maintaining blood glucose levels and blood pressure.'
"

Proteins (4)

Compounds (33)