The role of estradiol metabolites in prevention of cardiovascular diseases by hormone substitution in postmenopause
Lippert, T.H.; Seeger, H.; Mueck, A.O.
Zentralblatt für Gynakologie 121(10): 467-472
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0044-4197 PMID: 10573819 Document Number: 500531
Postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy has shown to reduce cardiovascular disease by direct and indirect estradiol-mediated effects on the cardiovascular system. Recently, evidence is growing that estradiol metabolites may also have beneficial actions. In the present review the existing experimental data for vascular effects of estradiol metabolites are summarized. The results of our own experiments in addition to those of other groups indicate that estradiol metabolites, especially catechol estrogens, exert beneficial effects on the vascular system and perhaps may play a physiologic role in the cardiovascular system. Reference to clinical-pharmacological aspects for the use of estradiol metabolites for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases is presented.