Estrone (E1) - Function, Effects & Hormone Levels
Estrone (E1) is a natural female sex hormone belonging to the estrogen group. It plays a key role in hormonal balance, particularly during and after menopause.
Things worth knowing about "Estrone"
Estrone (E1) is a natural female sex hormone belonging to the estrogen group. It plays a key role in hormonal balance, particularly during and after menopause.
What is Estrone?
Estrone (also referred to as E1) is one of the three main naturally occurring estrogens in the human body, alongside estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3). It belongs to the group of steroid hormones and is primarily produced in the ovaries, adipose (fat) tissue, and the adrenal cortex. Estrone is the predominant estrogen after menopause.
Biochemistry and Mechanism of Action
Estrone is mainly produced through the conversion of androstenedione, an androgen (male sex hormone), by the enzyme aromatase. It can also be formed from estradiol and vice versa, as both hormones are interconvertible in the body.
Estrone exerts its effects by binding to estrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta) in various tissues. Compared to estradiol, estrone has a lower estrogenic potency. It influences numerous bodily functions, including:
- Development and maintenance of female reproductive organs
- Bone strength and density
- Skin and mucosal health
- Cardiovascular system
- Brain function and mood regulation
Estrone Throughout the Life Cycle
Before Menopause
In premenopausal women, estradiol is the dominant estrogen. Estrone is less significant during this phase but is still produced in relevant quantities.
During and After Menopause
After menopause, the ovaries largely cease hormone production. Estrone, formed in adipose tissue through the aromatization of androstenedione, becomes the predominant estrogen in the body. Women with higher body fat percentages therefore produce more estrone after menopause.
Estrone in Men
Men also produce small amounts of estrone, mainly through peripheral conversion of androgens in adipose tissue. Elevated estrone levels in men can be associated with higher body fat content.
Clinical Significance
Estrone Deficiency
Estrone deficiency can occur in the context of menopause and may lead to the following symptoms:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and mucosal changes
- Osteoporosis (bone loss)
- Mood swings and sleep disturbances
Elevated Estrone Levels
Persistently elevated estrone levels, particularly relative to progesterone and estradiol, have been associated with an increased risk of certain hormone-dependent conditions, such as estrogen-dependent breast cancer or endometrial carcinoma.
Diagnosis and Measurement
Estrone can be measured through a blood test or a urine test. Levels are expressed in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). Reference ranges vary depending on sex, age, and cycle phase. Measuring estrone levels is particularly relevant in the evaluation of hormonal disorders, assessment of menopausal symptoms, and monitoring of hormone replacement therapy.
Treatment and Hormone Replacement Therapy
Within the context of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for the management of menopausal symptoms, estrone is used less frequently than estradiol. However, estrone is a component of some conjugated estrogen preparations (e.g., conjugated equine estrogens derived from mare urine). Any hormone therapy should always be individually tailored and medically supervised, as it carries both benefits and risks.
References
- Gruber CJ, Tschugguel W, Schneeberger C, Huber JC. - Production and actions of estrogens. N Engl J Med. 2002;346(5):340-352. PubMed PMID: 11807147.
- Hillard T, Abernathy K, Hamoda H et al. - Management of the Menopause. 6th edition. British Menopause Society (2017).
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Reproductive Health and Research. Hormones and Noncommunicable Diseases (2022). Available at: https://www.who.int
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