Circulating steroid hormones in prostate carcinogenesis. Part 2: Estrogens

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Estrogens, derived from androgens, play a role in prostate cancer (PCa).
• Estrogen's carcinogenic effects and genotoxicity of metabolites are established in animal models.
• Polymorphisms in aromatase and CYP1B1, and links between PCa, inflammation, and obesity are noted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the associations between circulating plasma estrogens and prostate cancer (PCa).
• To highlight the role of specific estrogens like estrone sulfate (E1-S) and their relation to PCa aggressiveness.
• To emphasize the importance of accurate estrogen measurement techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on plasma estrogens and PCa.
• Analysis of published data on estrogen levels in high-risk populations and Caucasians.
• Review of methods for detecting hydroxylated estrogens and DNA adducts.

Main Results:

• Higher plasma estrogen levels, especially estrone, were observed in subjects at high risk for PCa, particularly those of African descent.
• Elevated plasma estrogens, including E1-S, correlate with PCa aggressiveness.
• Genotoxicity of estrogen metabolites and DNA adduct formation are significant.

Conclusions:

• Circulating plasma estrogens are associated with prostate cancer risk and aggressiveness.
• Accurate measurement of estrogens, using methods like mass spectrometry, is crucial for reliable PCa research.
• Further investigation into estrogen metabolism and DNA adducts in PCa patients is warranted.