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Estrogen Metabolites

Meaning

Estrogen metabolites are the chemical breakdown products formed when the body processes and detoxifies active estrogen hormones, primarily estradiol, through hepatic and extra-hepatic enzymatic pathways. These metabolites, such as the 2-hydroxy, 4-hydroxy, and 16-hydroxy forms, possess varying degrees of estrogenic activity and distinct biological effects, ranging from protective to potentially proliferative. Assessing the profile of these metabolites provides a crucial clinical insight into an individual’s estrogen detoxification efficiency and associated health risks.