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Estrogen Precursors

Meaning

Estrogen precursors are steroid compounds that serve as the immediate or upstream biochemical substrates from which the body synthesizes the various forms of estrogen. These molecules are essential intermediates in the complex steroidogenesis pathway, a process that begins with cholesterol and proceeds through progestogens and androgens. The primary and most direct precursor is testosterone, which is converted into the potent estrogen, estradiol, via the aromatase enzyme. Understanding these precursors is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions related to estrogen deficiency or excess.