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CYP11A1 is necessary for the production of steroid hormones, such as estrogen, testosterone, aldosterone, and cortisol. It converts cholesterol into pregnenolone, a precursor of all other steroid hormones. This enzyme also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, it may increase susceptibility to allergies. Read on to learn more about CYP11A1 function, gene variants and factors that increase or decrease its activity.