Question

Which one of the following enzymes converts testosterone to estradiol?

• A. Aromatase
• B. 3\(\beta\)-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
• C. 5\(\alpha\)-reductase
• D. 17\(\beta\)-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase

Hint:

Aromatase is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of androgens to estrogens. It is essential in the biosynthesis of estradiol from testosterone.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the conversion process.
Testosterone is converted to estradiol through a process called aromatization. This process is catalyzed by the enzyme aromatase, which converts the androgen testosterone into the estrogen estradiol by aromatizing the A-ring of the steroid structure.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Aromatase is the correct enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to estradiol. - (B) 3\(\beta\)-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase is involved in the conversion of pregnenolone to progesterone and other steroid interconversions. - (C) 5\(\alpha\)-reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), not estradiol. - (D) 17\(\beta\)-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase catalyzes the conversion of estradiol to estrone and vice versa, not testosterone to estradiol.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Aromatase, as it is the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone to estradiol.