Expression and enzymatic activity of the P450c17 gene in human adipose tissue

P450 aromatase activity increases with age in adipose tissue. Increased oestrogen production has also been observed in obese elderly women, and has been related to the pathogenesis of endometrial cancer. Since peripheral oestrogen production requires the presence of androgenic metabolites, and a recent report from our laboratory showed very low expression levels of P450c17 mRNA in most postmenopausal ovaries analysed, we hypothesised on the existence of an alternative source of androgens. Since steroidogenic enzymes, such as 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3beta-HSD) and 17beta-HSD have been described in adipose tissue of primates and humans respectively, we aimed to analyse the possible expression of the P450c17 gene in adipose tissue, and its enzymatic capability.