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Estrogen Metabolism

Meaning

Estrogen Metabolism encompasses the biochemical pathways responsible for the inactivation, modification, and elimination of estrogens from the body, primarily occurring in the liver but also in peripheral tissues. This process involves Phase I (hydroxylation) and Phase II (conjugation) reactions to render the lipophilic steroids water-soluble for excretion. The balance between different metabolic pathways dictates the biological activity and clearance rate of circulating estrogens. Clinical assessment often evaluates the ratios of these metabolites.