Through the Looking-Glass: Reevaluating DHEA Metabolism Through HSD3B1 Genetics

Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2020 Sep;31(9):680-690. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.05.006. Epub 2020 Jun 18.

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA sulfate together are abundant adrenal steroids whose physiological effects are mediated through their conversion to potent downstream androgens. 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isotype 1 (3βHSD1) facilitates the rate-limiting step of DHEA metabolism and gates the flux of substrate into the distal portion of the androgen synthesis pathway. Notably, a germline, missense-encoding change, HSD3B1(1245C), results in expression of 3βHSD1 protein that is resistant to degradation, yielding greater potent androgen production in the periphery. In contrast, HSD3B1(1245A) encodes 3βHSD1 protein that is easily degraded, limiting peripheral androgen synthesis. These adrenal-permissive (AP) and adrenal-restrictive (AR) alleles have recently been associated with divergent outcomes in androgen-sensitive disease states, underscoring the need to reevaluate DHEA metabolism using HSD3B1 genetics.

Keywords: 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isotype 1; HSD3B1; adrenal steroids; androgens; dehydroepiandrosterone; genetics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases / genetics
  • 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases / metabolism
  • Androgens / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Dehydroepiandrosterone / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Progesterone Reductase / genetics
  • Progesterone Reductase / metabolism

Substances

  • Androgens
  • Dehydroepiandrosterone
  • 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases
  • Progesterone Reductase