Estrogen is one of the primary female sex hormones. The hormone refers to a group of steroid compounds that are known for the estrous cycle. The hormone is also used as an integral part in some oral contraceptives. In post menopausal women, the estrogen replacement therapy is very popular. In hormone replacement therapy in Trans women, estrogen is also used. Estrogen, like any other hormone steroid can diffuse instantly across the membrane of the cells.
Types of Estrogen
There are three major types of Estrogen that can be found in women. These types of Estrogen include estriol, estrone and estradiol. From menarche to menopause, estradiol is the main Estrogen present in women. After menopause, estrone level increases and estradiol level decreases. There are some other steroidal estrogens as well that are used in drugs. The estrogens include equilin and equilenin.
Production of Estrogen
The major part of the production of Estrogen takes place in ovaries, in the corpus letum as well as in the placenta. The hormone is produced by the development of follicles in those areas. In the ovaries the production of estrogen is stimulated by the follicle stimulating hormone and lutenizing hormone. In some tissues like liver adrenal glands, liver and breasts the production of Estrogen also takes place in small amounts. These are generally called the secondary sources of estrogen.
Functions of Estrogen
There are some major functions of Estrogen in both men and women. Though the hormone is present in both men a well as in women, the level of the hormone is considerably higher in the women of reproductive age. One of the major functions of Estrogen is that it facilitates the development of the secondary sexual features present in women. The hormone helps in development of breasts. It also thickens the endometrium as well as many other aspects that regulate the menstrual cycle of reproductive women.
Structurally, Estrogen helps in formation of second sex characteristics like breast in women.
It also increases the height growth and metabolism. The hormone is also known to promote lung function. The hormone maintains the fluid balance, with salt and water retention. The hormone also increases HDL, hepatic production of binding, SHBG and cortisol. On the other hand, Estrogen can also reduce fat disposition, LDL and bowel movement.
Estrogen and cancer
Estrogen is also known to support the hormone sensitive or hormone receptor positive breast cancers. This type of breast cancer is one of the most common type of breast cancer.
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