Shown are cholesterol, estradiol, testosterone (see N13) and progesterone, which is the female pregnancy hormone. Cholesterol and all three hormones are present in both, males and females, albeit in different concentration. Their biosynthesis follows one common scheme. Based on the structures shown below, which is the hormone that is formed as an intermediate during the biosynthesis of the other two hormones?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Progesterone is formed as an intermediate during the biosynthesis of both estradiol and testosterone, as can be seen from the shared precursor pregnenolone. Cholesterol, on the other hand, is not an intermediate for any of the three hormones.

Shown Are Cholesterol, Estradiol, Testosterone (See N13) and Progesterone, Which