Synonyms:AKR1C4, HAKRA, CHDR, 3 alpha HSD1, Chlordecone reductase Background:Catalyzes the transformation of the potent androgen dihydrotestosterone(DHT) into the less active form, 5-alpha-androstan-3-alpha,17-beta-diol(3-alpha-diol). Also has some 20-alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. The biotransformation of the pesticide chlordecone(kepone) to its corresponding alcohol leads to increased biliary excretion of the pesticide and concomitant reduction of its neurotoxicity since bile is the major excretory route.