5α reductase is a key enzyme in androgen metabolism. Altered enzyme function and/or regulation is responsible for numerous human pathologies such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, acne, hirsutism and male pattern baldness. In order to block androgen action through inhibition of this enzyme, numerous compounds have been synthesized during the past two decades. Among them, 4-azasteroids and in particular finasteride have been extensively studied and used in the treatment of human diseases.
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