SF1/Steroidogenic Factor 1 [MD95]

Steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1), also known as NR5A1, regulates multiple genes involved in the adrenal and gonadal development and in the biosynthesis of a variety of hormones, including adrenal and gonadal steroids, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and gonadotropins. SF-1 belongs to the fushi tarazu factor-1 (FTZ-F1) subfamily of orphan nuclear receptors. In the adult ovary, SF-1 localizes to theca/interstitial cells. Overexpression or overactivity of SF-1 is also reported in some adrenal tumors or endometriosis. Therefore, the spectrum of phenotypes associated with variations in SF-1 is expanding and the importance of this nuclear receptor in human endocrine disease is now firmly established.