HSD3B1: Proteins and Enzymes

3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/delta(5)-delta(4)isomerase (HSD3B1) is a bifunctional enzyme involved in the oxidative conversion of steroids and plays an important role in the synthesis of all steroid hormones. There are two HSD3B1 proteins--designated type I and type II--that are expressed by different genes and function in different areas of the body. HSD3B1 has also been shown to be a highly specific and sensitive trophoblast-associated marker.

HSD3B1 is required for the production of progesterone by the placenta, so it is predicted that mutations in this gene may cause infertility in women. HSD3B1 antibodies are useful tools for researchers studying hormone regulation and reproductive biology.