[11 beta-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase].

There are two types of 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta-HSD). 11 beta-HSD 1 is an oxoreductase interconverting biologically active cortisol and inactive cortisone. 11 beta-HSD 2 is an exclusive oxidase only converting cortisol to cortisone. It has been recognized that 11 beta-HSD 2 confers the specificity of mineralocorticoid receptor in the kidney and protects the fetus from high levels of maternal glucocorticoids in the placenta. Lack or malfunction of this enzyme could result in the development of apparent mineralocorticoid excess syndrome and intrauterine growth retardation of the fetus. 11 beta-HSD is possibly involved in a number of other physiological and pathological conditions such as stress, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative disorders. The functions of 11 beta-HSD 1 are not very well understood.