Skip to main content

Estrogen Metabolism Genes

Meaning

Estrogen metabolism genes encode the specific enzymes responsible for the synthesis, phase I hydroxylation, and phase II conjugation and clearance of estrogens and their various metabolites within the human body. Genetic polymorphisms in these pathways critically influence an individual’s lifetime exposure to specific estrogenic and anti-estrogenic compounds, which has significant implications for reproductive health and hormone-sensitive cancer risk. Key enzymes involved include various CYP450 isozymes and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).