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Systems Biology of Metabolic Regulation by Estrogen Receptor Signaling in Breast Cancer
Published on: March 17, 2016
Variations in estrone sulfatase activity in human leukocytes
H D Han1, M M Fencl, D Tulchinsky
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Estrone sulfate metabolism by leukocytes differs between sexes and reproductive states. Follicular phase women show higher E1 sulfatase activity than luteal phase women or men, with pregnancy lowering this activity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cellular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Estrone sulfate (E1S) is a major circulating estrogen metabolite.
- Leukocytes possess sulfatase activity, capable of hydrolyzing steroid sulfates.
- Understanding leukocyte E1S metabolism is crucial for comprehending local estrogenic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of human peripheral blood leukocytes to metabolize estrone sulfate.
- To compare E1 sulfatase activity in leukocytes from men and women across different reproductive and hormonal states.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of peripheral blood leukocytes (granulocytes and mononuclear cells) from men and women.
- Incubation of leukocytes with [3H]E1S and measurement of the formed [3H]E1.
- Correction for nonenzymatic hydrolysis to determine E1 sulfatase activity.
Main Results:
- Leukocyte E1 sulfatase activity was significantly higher in women during the follicular phase compared to the luteal phase and men.
- Activity in menopausal and hirsute women was comparable to follicular phase women.
- Leukocyte E1 sulfatase activity was significantly lower in pregnant women compared to nonpregnant women in the follicular phase.
Conclusions:
- Leukocyte E1 sulfatase activity exhibits significant variation based on sex and reproductive status.
- Progesterone may play a role in modulating leukocyte E1 sulfatase activity.
- Estrogens do not appear to modulate this activity in leukocytes.
