Term: steroid metabolism gene

Pronunciation: (STAYR-oyd meh-TA-buh-lih-zum jeen)

Description:

A type of gene that helps the body build up or break down steroids. Steroids may be made by the body (such as hormones and cholesterol) or made in a laboratory (such as drugs). A steroid metabolism gene called CYP17 is being studied in breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers.