| Modification Notes |
17∫-HSD2 (17∫ hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2) belongs to the 17∫-HSD family of proteins that regulate the availability of steroids within a tissue. 17∫-HSD2 converts active steroids to their inactive form through its oxidative activity. It is a key player in the inactivation of Estradiol and testosterone. Due to the affects that 17∫-HSD2 has on the availability of estrogen, it has been extensively investigated for playing a possible role in breast tumor development, colon cancer development and the pathophysiology of endometriosis. 17∫-HSD2 is predominantly expressed in the placenta, endometrium and prostate but can also be found in the liver, small intestine, and kidney. 17∫-HSD2 is a membrane bound protein. Tibolone, a treatment used for climacteric symptoms in menopausal women, functions in part by activating 17∫-HSD2. |