Regulation of human 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-2 (3βHSD2) by molecular chaperones and the mitochondrial environment affects steroidogenesis.

Human 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase types 1 and 2 (3βHSD1 and 3βHSD2, respectively) are expressed in a tissue-specific pattern by different genes. Site-directed mutagenesis studies have confirmed the function of the catalytic amino acids (Tyr154, Lys 158, Ser124 in both isoenzymes), substrate/inhibitor isoform-specific residues (His156 and Arg195 in 3βHSD1) and cofactor binding residues (Asp36 provides NAD(+) specificity in both isoenzymes). However, detailed analysis of isoform-specific organelle localization and characterization is difficult due to the 93% amino acid identity between the two isoforms. With recent advances in the knowledge of mitochondrial architecture and localization of the various translocases, our laboratory has studied the mechanisms regulating mitochondrial 3βHSD2 localization. The mitochondrial N-terminal leader sequence of 3βHSD2 directs its entry into the mitochondria where it is localized to the intermembrane space (IMS). Unlike other mitochondrial proteins, the N-terminal signal sequence of 3βHSD2 is not cleaved upon mitochondrial import. 3βHSD2 interacts with the mitochondrial translocase, Tim50, to regulate progesterone and androstenedione formation. Our studies suggest that its activity at the IMS is facilitated in a partially unfolded "molten globule" conformation by the proton pump between the matrix and IMS. The unfolded protein is refolded by the mitochondrial chaperones. The protons at the IMS are absorbed by the lipid vesicles, to maintain the proton pump and recycle 3βHSD2. As a result, one molecule of 3βHSD2 may participate in multiple catalytic reactions. In summary, the steroidogenic cell recycles 3βHSD2 to catalyze the reactions needed to produce androstenedione, progesterone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone on demand in coordination with the mitochondrial translocase, Tim50. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Steroid/Sterol signaling'.