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The relationship between aromatase activity and body fat distribution
D W Killinger1, E Perel, D Daniilescu
1Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada.
Steroids
|July 1, 1987
Summary
Human fat cells from different body areas metabolize androstenedione (A) differently. Lower body fat, particularly from the thigh and buttock, converts A to estrogens (E1) more efficiently than abdominal fat.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Adipose Tissue Biology
- Steroid Metabolism
Background:
- Androstenedione (A) is a precursor to both androgens and estrogens.
- Adipose tissue plays a role in steroid hormone metabolism.
- Regional differences in adipose tissue composition and function are known.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the regional differences in the metabolism of androstenedione (A) in human adipose stromal cells.
- To compare the conversion of A to estrone (E1) and 5 alpha-reduced androgens across various body sites.
Main Methods:
- Human adipose tissue was obtained from non-obese patients undergoing liposuction or reduction mammoplasty.
- Stromal cells were isolated and cultured.
- Metabolism of androstenedione (A) to estrone (E1) and 5 alpha-reduced metabolites was quantified.
Main Results:
- Conversion of A to E1 was 6- to 30-fold greater in upper thigh, buttock, and flank adipose cells compared to abdominal cells.
- These regional differences persisted in cultured cells.
- Estrogen formation in breast adipose tissue was similar to abdominal fat.
- Formation of 5 alpha-reduced metabolites showed inter-patient variability but was similar across body sites.
Conclusions:
- Regional distribution of adipose tissue influences androgen metabolism.
- Lower body fat exhibits a higher capacity for converting androstenedione to estrogens compared to upper body fat.
- This suggests a potential role for body fat distribution in systemic estrogen levels.