Steroidogenic enzymes in skin.

The document discussed the role of steroidogenic enzymes in the skin, particularly focusing on the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by 5a-reductase enzymes, which is linked to androgenetic alopecia. DHT binds more strongly to androgen receptors than testosterone, contributing to hair loss. The study highlighted the development of finasteride, a 5a-reductase inhibitor, which was effective in promoting hair growth by reducing DHT levels in the scalp and plasma. Additionally, it noted that other enzymes could also contribute to DHT production in the scalp, potentially accelerating hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals.