The role of catecholestrogens in placental steroidogenesis

The effect of the catecholestrogen, 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1), on placental steroidogenesis was studied by incubating 2-OHE1 with placental explants for 24 hours and measuring the output of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). 2-OHE1 stimulated the accumulation of E2 and P4 in the media. This effect was inhibited by the alpha-adrenergic blocker, phenoxybenzamine, and the beta-adrenergic blocker, propranolol. We conclude that 2-OHE1 affects placental steroidogenesis and that this effect could possibly be mediated through adrenergic receptors.