Biosynthesis of steroids in various tissues related to feminizing syndromes.

Recently we had ani opportunity to study the biochemistry of 2 cliniical conditions leading to feminization: one due to an adrenal tumor and the other to abnormal testicular tissue. In the 1st imistance, the biosynthesis of estrogens from pregnenolone and progesterone imian adrenal tumor was demonstrated for the 1st time. In the 2nd study, estrogen biosynthesis was demonstrated by homogenates of these abnormal testes, and it was shown that these patients have normal levels of testosterone in the l)lasma even though miotrue masculinization is observed. A hypothesis accounting for this abnormality is suggested.