What are steroid hormones?

A steroid hormone is a steroid that functions as a hormone.
Steroid hormones are a class of hormones derived from cholesterol that function as chemical messengers in the body.
These are produced in the adrenal cortex, testis, ovary, and some other peripheral tissues.
All steroid hormones originate from cholesterol but differ from each other because of the different ring structures and side chains they contain.
Those enzymes which produce steroid hormones are present in Mitochondria and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum.
These are soluble in lipids but insoluble in water.
These are permeable to cell membranes so they are not stored in cells.
They are nonpolar so can diffuse easily through lipid membranes. Thus they leave cells instantly after synthesis.
Steroids are derivatives of a reduced 3-ring phenanthrene molecule with a fourth “D” ring added.

Structure of steriods haromones — Fig.1 Structure of Steroids

colourful Assortment of steroid medicine tablets — Colorful Assortment Of steroid Medicine Tables & Capsules.

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Types of steroid hormones:

1. Corticosteroids:

They are made in the adrenal cortex. The binding globulin carries cortisol.

Glucocorticoid:

These are secreted in the adrenal cortex.
They mainly affect metabolism by

decreasing inflammation and
Increasing resistance to stress.

For example

Cortisol, corticosterone, 11-dehydro corticosterone and cortisone.

istockphoto 1286370378 1024x1024 1 — Cortisol structural chemical formula, Chalk drawing on a blackboard. Steroid hormone, stress metabolism. 3d illustration

11-dehydro corticosterone — Fig.4 11-dihydro corticosterone

structure of cortisone — Fig.5 Cortisone

Mineralocorticoids:

These are originated in the adrenal cortex.
They maintain salt and water balance.
For example

Aldosterone

2. Sex steroids:

These are typically made in the gonads or placenta. The binding globulin carries testosterone and estradiol.

Progestogens:

Progestogens also called progestins.
These are originated from both ovaries and placenta.
They mediate menstrual cycle and maintain pregnancy.
For example

Pregnenolone and progesterone

Structure of pregnenolone — Fig.7 Pregnenolone

Structure of progesterone — Fig.8 Progesterone

Estrogens:

These are secreted in the adrenal cortex and gonads.
They mainly affect maturation and functions of secondary sex organs(female sexual determination).
For example

Estradiol and Estrone

Structure of estradiol — Fig.9 Estradiol

Androgens:

These are also originate in the adrenal cortex and gonads.
They mainly effect maturation and functions of secondary sex organs ( male sexual determination).
For example

Testosterone

Functions of steroid hormones:

Steroid hormones play very important role in

Carbohydrate regulation
Mineral balance
Reproductive functions
Inflammatory response
Stress response
Bone metabolism
Cardiovascular fitness
Activates DNA for protein synthesis
Immune functions

FAQ

What is the chemical structure of a steroid?

Steroids are derivatives of a reduced 3-ring phenanthrene molecule with a fourth “D” ring added. The carbons of A,B,C and D rings are conventionally numbered 1 to 17. They interact with cellular receptors.

Primary structure of steriods — Fig. 1.3 Chemical Structure of Steroids

Which food contains steroids?

Celery
Spinach
Quinoa
Eggs
Fava Beans
Avocados
Extra Virgin Olive oil and coconut oil
Foods high in vitamins C,A, and D , zinc, and magnesium.

Is cholesterol a steroid?

Cholesterol is the most common steroid in the body. It is a precursor to vitamin D and many steroid hormones such as testosterone, estrogen and cortisol.

Who is the father of steroids?

John Bosley Ziegler is the father of steroids. He was American physician who originally developed the anabolic steroid Methandrostenolone (Dianabol) which was released in the USA in 1958 by Ciba.