The complex biochemical pathway by which the body processes, modifies, and ultimately eliminates the various forms of estrogen hormones, primarily estradiol, estrone, and estriol. This process involves multiple enzymatic steps, mainly occurring in the liver, which convert active estrogens into various hydroxylated and methylated metabolites. The specific balance of these metabolites is a critical factor in hormonal health and disease risk.
Origin
The term integrates estrogen, the class of steroid hormones, and metabolism, the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. The detailed understanding of the phase I and phase II detoxification pathways in the liver developed through extensive biochemical and pharmacological research throughout the mid-20th century.
Mechanism
Estrogen metabolism involves Phase I hydroxylation by cytochrome P450 enzymes, which creates various estrogen metabolites, some of which are more active or potentially damaging than others. Subsequently, Phase II conjugation, primarily through methylation and glucuronidation, renders these metabolites water-soluble for safe excretion via bile and urine. The efficiency of these enzymatic steps, which is often genetically determined, dictates the overall hormonal environment and influences the risk of estrogen-sensitive conditions.
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