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Tissue-specific estrogen biosynthesis and metabolism.
E R Simpson1, C Clyne, C Speed
1Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. evan.simpson@med.monash.edu.au
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|January 25, 2002
Summary
After menopause, extragonadal sites become major estrogen sources, influencing health and disease. Selective aromatase modulators (SAMs) may treat estrogen-dependent conditions like breast cancer.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Ovaries are the primary systemic estrogen source in premenopausal women.
- Extragonadal sites become major estrogen producers post-menopause.
- These extragonadal sources play significant, under-recognized roles in physiology and pathophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of extragonadal estrogen biosynthesis.
- To explore the role of aromatase activity in extragonadal sites.
- To investigate the potential therapeutic applications of selective aromatase modulators (SAMs).
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on estrogen biosynthesis.
- Analysis of the role of aromatase in extragonadal tissues.
- Discussion of the implications for estrogen-dependent diseases.
Main Results:
- Extragonadal estrogen production is significant after menopause.
- Aromatase activity in extragonadal sites contributes to estrogen levels.
- This activity may be implicated in breast tumor development and growth.
Conclusions:
- Extragonadal estrogen sources are crucial beyond menopause.
- Targeting aromatase activity with SAMs offers potential for treating estrogen-dependent diseases.
- Further research into extragonadal estrogen's role is warranted.