Estrogeny

Estrogeny is a term sometimes used to refer to estrogens, a group of steroid hormones essential for sexual development and reproduction, as well as numerous other physiological processes. In English, estrogens is the standard term. The principal natural estrogens are estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), and estriol (E3). Estradiol is the most potent and abundant estrogen in premenopausal individuals.

Estrogen synthesis and distribution occur mainly in the ovaries, with additional production in adipose tissue, the adrenal glands, and the placenta during pregnancy. In premenopausal women, the ovaries produce large amounts of estrogen, especially during the follicular phase. After menopause, peripheral tissues convert androgens to estrogens via the enzyme aromatase. Estrogen metabolism primarily takes place in the liver and is excreted in urine.

Estrogens exert their effects through estrogen receptors, principally ER alpha and ER beta, which function as transcription factors to regulate gene expression. They also act via non-genomic signaling pathways, including membrane-associated receptors such as GPER. Target tissues include the uterus, ovaries, breast, bone, brain, cardiovascular system, and liver, with tissue-specific responses depending on receptor distribution and co-regulators.

Physiological roles of estrogens encompass development and maintenance of the female reproductive tract and secondary sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle and fertility, maintenance of bone density, and modulation of metabolism, mood, and cardiovascular function. Clinically, estrogens are used in hormone replacement therapy and certain contraceptives; environmental estrogens and endocrine disruptors can influence estrogen signaling.