Estradiol synthesis pathway

The estradiol synthesis pathway transforms cholesterol into estradiol via several enzymatic steps: cholesterol is first converted to pregnenolone, then to various intermediates including androstenedione and testosterone, and finally estradiol by aromatase and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes. This pathway operates predominantly in the ovaries (granulosa cells), but also in extra-gonadal tissues including adipose tissue, brain, and skin. Disruption, overactivation, or blockade of the pathway contributes to physiological and pathological states including reproductive disorders, menopause, and hormone-dependent cancers[1][2][3][6][7].

Other names

Estrogen biosynthesis pathwayEstradiol biosynthetic pathwayEstrogen synthesis pathway

Enzyme inhibition (e.g. aromatase inhibition blocks conversion of androgens to estrogens, thus reducing estradiol synthesis)