16-Hydroxyestradiol

16-Hydroxyestradiol (also known as 16α-Hydroxyestradiol) is a metabolite of estradiol, an important female sex hormone. It is formed in the body by the action of the enzyme cytochrome P450 on estradiol.

Structure and Properties

16-Hydroxyestradiol is a steroid hormone, like all estrogens. It has a molecular weight of 302.4 g/mol and a molecular formula of C18H24O3. Its structure includes a hydroxyl group (-OH) at the 16α position on the estradiol molecule, hence its name.

Biological Role

16-Hydroxyestradiol is one of several metabolites of estradiol that have biological activity. It binds to the estrogen receptor, a protein found in many tissues of the body, including the breast, uterus, and brain. By binding to this receptor, 16-Hydroxyestradiol can influence the growth and development of these tissues.

Health Implications

Research has suggested that 16-Hydroxyestradiol may have a role in the development of certain diseases. For example, it has been implicated in the development of breast cancer and endometriosis. However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential links.

See Also

• Estradiol
• Estrogen receptor
• Breast cancer
• Endometriosis