HMOX1 (heme oxygenase (decycling) 1) encodes for the enzyme heme oxygenase 1 in humans. It is a stress response enzyme that may protect the maternal endothelium and facilitate adequate metabolic adaptation to pregnancy by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. The enzyme plays an important role in many physiological systems, with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimetabolic properties. Lower circulation of the enzyme is associated with a higher risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in non-obese women, in a dose-related manner. It exerts anti-inflammatory benefit in a variety of inflammatory diseases.
