cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1

Normal function

The CYP19A1 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called aromatase. This enzyme converts a class of hormones called androgens, which are involved in male sexual development, to different forms of the female sex hormone estrogen.

In cells, aromatase is found in a structure called the endoplasmic reticulum, which is involved in protein production, processing, and transport. The activity (expression) of aromatase varies among different cell types depending on the cells' need for estrogen. In females, aromatase is most active in the ovaries, where it guides sexual development. In males, aromatase is most active in fat (adipose) tissue. In both males and females, estrogen plays a role in regulating bone growth and blood sugar (glucose) levels. During fetal development, aromatase converts androgens to estrogens in the placenta, which is the link between the mother's blood supply and the fetus. This conversion in the placenta prevents androgens from directing sexual development in female fetuses. After birth, the conversion of androgens to estrogens takes place in multiple tissues.

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

• Brustkrebs

• Aromatase deficiency

• Aromatase excess syndrome

Other names

ARO

ARO1

aromatase

CP19A_HUMAN

CPV1

CYAR

CYP19

CYPXIX

cytochrome P-450AROM

cytochrome P450 19A1

cytochrome P450, family 19, subfamily A, polypeptide 1

cytochrome P450, subfamily XIX (aromatization of androgens)

estrogen synthase

estrogen synthetase

flavoprotein-linked monooxygenase

microsomal monooxygenase

P-450AROM