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== Pregnane ==

'''Pregnane''' (pronounced: preɪɡˈneɪn) is a parent hydrocarbon for two series of [[steroids]] that are formed by the addition of side chains to carbon atoms 20 or 21. 

=== Etymology ===

The term "Pregnane" is derived from the Latin word 'pregnans', meaning 'pregnant', due to its discovery in the urine of pregnant women.

=== Structure ===

Pregnane is a 21-carbon steroid, with a carbon skeleton consisting of three six-membered rings and a five-membered ring. The rings are designated A, B, C, and D from left to right. The two series of steroids formed from pregnane are distinguished by the position of a double bond. 

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Pregnane X receptor]]: A nuclear receptor that in humans is encoded by the NR1I2 (nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group I, member 2) gene.
* [[Pregnanediol]]: A metabolite of progesterone. It is excreted in the urine of pregnant women.
* [[Pregnanes]]: The family of steroids that includes pregnane, progesterone, and other compounds with similar structures.

=== Biological Role ===

Pregnane is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of many biologically important steroids, including [[corticosteroids]] and [[progestogens]]. These steroids play crucial roles in a variety of physiological processes, including inflammation, immune response, and the menstrual cycle.

=== See Also ===

* [[Steroid]]
* [[Corticosteroids]]
* [[Progestogens]]

[[Category:Biochemistry]]
[[Category:Steroids]]
[[Category:Endocrinology]]

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