Problems in the use of chemical and functional nomenclatures for steroids in human physiology, biology and pharmacology

Abstract

Steroid compounds are important messengers in the human body that can be described using multiple nomenclature systems, each reflecting a different perspective on structure or function. Chemical nomenclature, based on IUPAC conventions, classifies steroids according to their ring structure and functional groups, whereas functional nomenclature reflects a compound's source, biological action, regulatory pathways, metabolism, or clinical application. These parallel systems are often applied inconsistently across disciplines, leading to ambiguity in interpretation and communication. This review outlines the foundations of chemical and functional naming, highlights circumstances in which nomenclature becomes inconsistent, and illustrates how physiology, molecular biology, receptor diversification, genetics, oncology, and the microbiome complicate terminology. Because clinicians, biochemists, pharmacologists, and researchers often apply different naming logics, coherent definitions and consistent usage are necessary for clear scientific discourse. This review proposes considerations to support more precise application of steroid nomenclature in academic publications.