CYP11A1

CYP11A1, a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily and specifically the cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A, is encoded by the CYP11A1 gene and predominantly found in adrenocortical cells. This enzyme initiates steroid hormone synthesis by catalyzing the side-chain cleavage of cholesterol to produce pregnenolone, a rate-determining step. CYP11A1's activity is not only pivotal for the production of adrenocortical hormones like cortisol and aldosterone but also essential for the body's stress response. Disruptions in CYP11A1 function have clinical implications, being associated with conditions such as adrenal hyperplasia and adrenocortical carcinoma.