The enzyme associated with the conversion of androgen to oestrogen in the growing ovarian follicle is
The main enzyme in this process is aromatase. Aromatase catalyzes the aromatization of androgens to estrogens. It's part of the cytochrome P450 family, specifically CYP19A1. This enzyme is active in the granulosa cells of the ovarian follicles, where it converts testosterone to estradiol.
Now, the other options might include enzymes like 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, or 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts androstenedione to testosterone. 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase is involved in earlier steps in steroid synthesis.
So the correct answer is aromatase. The clinical pearl here is that aromatase inhibitors are used in breast cancer treatment to reduce estrogen levels. I need to structure the explanation clearly, making sure each section is covered concisely.
**Core Concept**
The conversion of androgens (e.g., testosterone) to estrogens (e.g., estradiol) in ovarian follicles is a key step in estrogen biosynthesis. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme **aromatase (CYP19A1)**, a member of the cytochrome P450 family, which facilitates the aromatization of androgens by removing a carbon atom from the steroid A-ring and introducing a phenolic ring.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
**Aromatase** is specifically expressed in granulosa cells of the ovary, where it converts androstenedione to estrone and testosterone to estradiol. This enzyme is critical for estrogen production during follicular development. Its activity is regulated by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) via cAMP signaling, ensuring synchronized ovarian steroidogenesis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** 5α-reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), involved in androgenic effects, not estrogen synthesis.
**Option B:** 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase converts androstenedione to testosterone but does not aromatize androgens.
**Option C:** 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase catalyzes earlier steps in steroidogenesis (e.g., converting pregnenolone to progesterone).
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Aromatase inhibitors (e.g., letrozole) are used in postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer to block peripheral estrogen production. Remember: **"Aromatase = A to E"** (Androgen to Estrogen).
**Correct Answer: C. Aromatase**