Physiological functions and hormonal regulation of mouse vas deferens protein (AKR1B7) in steroidogenic tissues

The MVDP (mouse vas deferens protein) gene encodes an aldose reductase-like protein (AKR1B7) highly expressed in vas deferens epithelium and zona fasc iculata of the adrenal cortex. Recombinant MVDP showed kinetic properties d istinct from those of aldose reductase, including its spectrum of substrate s, cofactor preference and sensitivity to inhibitors. We demonstrate that i n adrenocortical cells, MVDP, rather than aldose reductase, is the principa l reductase for isocaproaldehyde (a product of side-chain cleavage of chole sterol) and 4-hydroxynonenal (a lipid peroxidation product). In steroidogen ic tissues MVDP expression is regulated by pituitary trophic hormones, name ly ACTH in adrenals, FSH in ovaries, and LH in testicular Leydig cells. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.