Question

Precursor for corticosteroids synthesis is:

• A. Phenanthrene
• B. 1,2-Cyclopentophenanthrene
• C. 1,2-Cyclopentodihydrophenanthrene
• D. Cholesterol

Hint:

Cholesterol is the primary precursor for all steroid hormones, including corticosteroids. Focus on its role in the adrenal cortex for hormone synthesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding corticosteroid synthesis. Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex. They are derived from cholesterol, which serves as the precursor molecule. 

Step 2: Role of cholesterol in corticosteroid biosynthesis. Cholesterol undergoes enzymatic modifications to form pregnenolone, the first committed step in the biosynthesis of corticosteroids. This pathway eventually leads to the production of hormones like cortisol and aldosterone. 

Step 3: Incorrect options. - Phenanthrene and its derivatives are not precursors for corticosteroids. 
- Cholesterol's unique structure, a sterol with a hydroxyl group, makes it the ideal precursor.