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2: 16α Ratio

Meaning

The 2:16α ratio represents a critical measure derived from the urinary or serum concentrations of two distinct estrogen metabolites: 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1) and 16α-hydroxyestrone (16α-OHE1). This numerical relationship provides a clinical snapshot of the liver’s preferred pathway for estrogen detoxification, a process central to long-term hormonal health. A higher ratio is generally considered favorable, indicating a prevalence of the less proliferative 2-OHE1 metabolite over the potentially more active 16α-OHE1. Understanding this balance allows for personalized interventions aimed at supporting safer estrogen metabolism.