4-Methoxyestradiol

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4-Methoxyestradiol (4-MeO-E2) is a synthetic, nonsteroidal estrogen and a derivative of estradiol, the primary female sex hormone. It is characterized by the presence of a methoxy group at the fourth position of the estradiol molecule.

Chemical Structure and Properties

4-Methoxyestradiol is a methoxy derivative of estradiol, specifically modified at the C4 position. The chemical structure of 4-Methoxyestradiol can be represented as follows:

• IUPAC name: (8R,9S,13S,14S,17S)-3-Methoxy-13-methyl-6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-decahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-17,18-diol
• Molecular formula: C19H26O3
• Molecular weight: 302.41 g/mol

Pharmacology

4-Methoxyestradiol exhibits estrogenic activity by binding to and activating the estrogen receptors (ERs), which are intracellular receptors that mediate the effects of estrogens. The binding affinity of 4-Methoxyestradiol to ERs is lower compared to estradiol, but it still exerts significant biological effects.

Biological Effects

As an estrogenic compound, 4-Methoxyestradiol influences various physiological processes, including:

• Regulation of the menstrual cycle
• Development and maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics
• Modulation of bone density
• Influence on cardiovascular health

Clinical Applications

4-Methoxyestradiol has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the treatment of menopausal symptoms. However, its clinical use is limited, and it is not widely prescribed.

Research and Development

Ongoing research is exploring the potential of 4-Methoxyestradiol in various medical fields, including its role in cancer treatment, particularly breast cancer and endometrial cancer. Its effects on bone health and cardiovascular disease are also areas of active investigation.

See Also

• Estradiol
• Estrogen receptor
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Menopause

External Links

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