11ß-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (synonym: 11ß-HSD) is an enzyme (oxido-reductase) of the short-chain alcohol dehydrogenase superfamily (SCAD) that plays an important role in the regulation of cortisol metabolism. Two isoenzymes 11ß-HSD-1 and 11ß-HSD-2 can be distinguished.
11ß-HSD-1 is found in testis, ovary (ovary), pituitary gland (pituitary gland), cerebellum, as well as colon (large intestine), liver and lung. It acts as a reductase and converts cortisone (inactive) to cortisol (active). If there is a mutation in the 11ß-HSD-1 gene, this can lead to increased androgen production in women. In animal models, an association between the mutation and insulin resistance and abdominal (truncal) obesity has been identified. If 11ß-HSD-2 is inhibited, the so-called “apparent mineralocorticoid excess syndrome” (AME) can occur. Other disorders include fetal growth retardation or decreased testosterone levels in males. Inhibitors of 11ß-HSD are bile acids and extracts of licorice root (licorice).
The following roles are performed by 11ß-HSD:
- Regulation of electrolytes sodium and potassium, regulation of fluid balance and acid-base ratio.
- Fetal lung maturation
The procedure
In this test, the 11ß-HSD index is presented. This can be calculated as follows:
11ß-HSD index = (cortisol + tetrahydrocortisonel + allo-tetrahydrocortisol) / (cortisone + tetrahydrocortisone).
Material needed
- 24h urine
Preparation of the patient
- No information
Disruptive factors
- Not known
Normal value
| Normal value | < 2 |
Indications
- Risk for secondary diseases of obesity
Interpretation
Interpretation of increased values
- High 11-HSD activity leads to cortisol activation
