3-ketosteroids are a class of steroid compounds characterized by the presence of a ketone group at the third carbon position of their steroid structure. They play a significant role in various biological processes, including metabolism and hormone regulation. These compounds are often involved in the synthesis of important hormones like testosterone and cortisol. In the human body, 3-ketosteroids can be produced from the metabolism of cholesterol and other steroid precursors. They are important for maintaining physiological functions and can be measured in clinical settings to assess hormonal balance or diagnose certain medical conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency or polycystic ovary syndrome.