Participation of a Nonenzymatic Transformation in the Biosynthesis of Estrogens from Androgens

Abstract

The biosynthesis of estrogens from androgens proceeds via three enzymatic hydroxylations, of which the first two take place on the C-19 methyl group and convert it to aldehyde. The final and rate-determining hydroxylation occurs at the 2 beta position, and the product rapidly and nonenzymatically collapses to an estrogen.