Cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19A1)

Cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19A1) is a monooxygenase enzyme of the cytochrome P450 superfamily and the sole enzyme responsible for catalyzing the aromatization of androgens (such as androstenedione and testosterone) into estrogens (estrone and estradiol) during the final step of estrogen biosynthesis. It is predominantly localized in the endoplasmic reticulum of estrogen-producing tissues, including the gonads, brain, adipose tissue, placenta, bone, and various pathological sites (e.g., hormone-dependent tumors). Aromatase is essential for normal female sexual development, fertility, and bone health, and its dysregulation or overexpression is implicated in several estrogen-dependent diseases, especially hormone receptor–positive cancers. Aromatase inhibitors, which block its enzymatic function, are established therapeutics in postmenopausal breast cancer and are being studied or used in other estrogen-mediated disorders[1][3][4][7].

Other names

AromataseEstrogen synthetaseEstrogen synthaseCYP19Cytochrome P450 19A1

Inhibition of aromatase enzyme activity, preventing conversion of androgens to estrogens and decreasing estrogen biosynthesis