progesterone 21-hydroxylase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: O2 + progesterone + reduced [NADPH--hemoprotein reductase] = 21-hydroxyprogesterone + H+ + H2O + oxidized [NADPH--hemoprotein reductase]. [PMID:25855791, RHEA:50304]

Progesterone 21-hydroxylase activity is a crucial enzymatic function in the biosynthesis of steroid hormones, specifically the synthesis of cortisol and aldosterone. The enzyme, encoded by the CYP21A2 gene, catalyzes the hydroxylation of progesterone at the carbon-21 position, introducing a hydroxyl group to form 11-deoxycortisol. This reaction is the rate-limiting step in cortisol synthesis and is essential for maintaining normal stress response, blood pressure regulation, and electrolyte balance. Progesterone 21-hydroxylase activity also participates in the synthesis of aldosterone, the primary mineralocorticoid hormone, which regulates sodium and potassium balance in the body. The enzyme utilizes molecular oxygen and NADPH as cofactors to perform the hydroxylation reaction, which involves the transfer of a hydroxyl group from a water molecule to the target carbon atom. The activity is regulated by a complex interplay of factors, including hormones, transcription factors, and enzymatic cofactors. Defects in progesterone 21-hydroxylase activity can lead to various genetic disorders, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, characterized by cortisol deficiency and excessive production of androgens.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (5)