Osmosis video - Synthesis of adrenocortical hormones

Adrenocortical hormones are synthesized in the adrenal cortex, part of the adrenal glands located above the kidneys. The hormones are synthesized from cholesterol by a series of biochemical reactions catalyzed by enzymes. The first step is the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, then pregnenolone is converted to progesterone, androgens, and glucocorticoids. Further modifications of these molecules give rise to the different adrenocortical hormones, including aldosterone, cortisol, and androstenedione.