Both women and men can use the measurement of estrogen metabolites to assess the risk of various pathological conditions associated with estrogen metabolism imbalances, such as breast cancer, cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and prostate cancer.
The newest and most advanced version of the EstroGeniX™ v2.0 test includes more metabolites, such as the methoxy derivatives 2-methoxy-, 4-methoxy-estrone, and 4-hydroxy-estrone.
Estrogen Metabolism
Estrogens are hormones produced in both men and women. They are released into the bloodstream and are bound to specific hormone receptors in various target organs. When estrogens complete their action, they are removed from their receptors and, through the bloodstream, reach the liver, where they are broken down (metabolized) and finally removed from the body with the urine. There are several biochemical pathways through which estrogens can be metabolized in the body. The two main metabolic pathways are via 2-hydroxy-estrone (2-OHE1) and 16-alpha-hydroxy-estrone (16-OHE1). These breakdown products are called "estrogen metabolism products or estrogen metabolites."
2-hydroxy-estrone (2-OHE1)
The estrogens broken down by the 2-hydroxy biochemical pathway have little or no estrogenic effect, so they do not "stimulate" estrogen-dependent cancer cells to grow. Some studies even suggest that 2-OHE1 may inhibit estrogen-induced cancer cell growth. The CYP1A1 enzyme system is involved in this biochemical "pathway" of the liver.
16-hydroxy-estrone (16-OHE1)
Estrogens broken down by the 16-alpha-hydroxy biochemical pathway have a more substantial estrogenic effect and may, therefore, promote the development of hormone-dependent cancers. Some studies show that 16-OHE1 can alter the genetic makeup of cells. The enzyme system CYP1B1 is involved in this biochemical pathway.
It is now well established that when the Estrogen Metabolite Ratio (EMR) of 2-OHE1 to 16-OHE1 in the urine is greater than 2, there is a lower risk of certain diseases (breast, cervical, prostate cancers, etc.) and is also associated with lower severity of the disease in case of its occurrence. Maintaining a balance in favor of 2-hydroxy-estrogens helps maintain optimal levels of health.
Pathological conditions associated with estrogen metabolism imbalance
Breast cancer
Several studies show that women with breast cancer have a lower ratio of 2-OHE1 to 16-OHE1 than women of the same age without breast cancer.
Cervical dysplasia
Cervical dysplasia refers to the condition in which precancerous cells are found on cervical cytology (Pap test). The data show that the higher the severity of dysplasia, the lower the Estrogen Metabolite Ratio in urine.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer patients are more likely to have lower EMR than men without the disease.
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is when non-cancerous tumors develop in the larynx, vocal cords, and trachea. The disease is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and various studies show that the severity of the disease increases in patients with a lower estrogen metabolite ratio.
Why is it beneficial to monitor Estrogen Metabolites?
- Because the ratio of 2-hydroxy-estrone to 16-hydroxy-estrone affects some pathological conditions, measuring the ratio of estrogen metabolites provides essential information about the relative risk of these conditions.
- Knowing the increased risk of certain hormone-dependent conditions provides the necessary motivation to choose healthier lifestyles.
- Monitoring the estrogen metabolite ratio is simple: Only one urine sample is needed to measure both 2-OHE1 and 16-OHE1 metabolites.
Indications
The measurement of estrogen metabolites is especially suitable for women and men:
- Who wants to act proactively, looking for optimal health levels
- With a family history of breast, endometrium, cervix, or prostate cancers
- With a family history or risk factors for developing osteoporosis
How can the Estrogen Metabolite Ratio be improved?
Taking certain supplements and specific lifestyle changes can be used to increase the Estrogen Metabolite Ratio. Unfortunately, there is no absolute certainty that increasing the ratio guarantees a reduced risk of developing hormone-dependent diseases. However, we know from epidemiological studies that men and women with a higher ratio of 2-OHE1 to 16-OHE1 are much less likely to create a hormone-dependent disease. We also know that many supplements, foods, and lifestyle changes that increase EMR have documented health benefits. Thus, it is reasonable to assume that adding these supplements, foods, and lifestyle changes will reduce disease risk.
Supplements: Some natural products help improve the Estrogen Metabolic Ratio, such as Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), di-indolyl-methane (DIM), flaxseed, omega-3 fatty acids, soy isoflavones, and rosemary oil, which increase 2-hydroxy-estrone, thus increasing EMR.
Additionally, taking progesterone and thyroid hormones (T4) has improved Estrogen Metabolite Ratio.
Exercise: Levels of the "bad" metabolite 16-OHE1 increase with obesity, and therefore, weight loss and exercise are important factors in regulating EMR.
Lifestyle: Exposure to toxins can increase levels of the "bad" metabolite 16-OHE1, with a consequent reduction in EMR. Therefore, it is essential to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals. Excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce EMR.
Diet: Consuming more cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower can increase EMR by increasing the amount of the "good" metabolite 2-OHE1. Increasing dietary fiber intake and reducing saturated fat intake also help increase EMR.
