Estrone
Estrone is a hormone found in the human body. It is secreted by the ovaries. Estrone is an estrogen that is classified as a sex steroid hormone. Its chemical formula is C18H22O2.
Production and Secretion
Estrone is produced in and secreted from the ovaries. It is synthesized from androstenedione, a derivative of progesterone. In women, estrone plays a role in the development of female gender-specific characteristics. It enhances breast development and is responsible for changes in the body contour affecting bones, joints, fat deposition, fat structure, and skin composition. Estrone is the least common of the three estrogens.
Pharmacological Uses
Synthetic estrogen is available in several forms, including oral, vaginal, transdermal, topical, and injectable. There are several uses of estrogen as a drug:
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Women with low levels of estradiol are often given an estrogen drug. Low levels of estradiol are commonly associated with menopause. Additionally, it is commonly used to promote female gender-specific characteristics in male-to-female transsexuals.
Fertility Therapy
Synthetic estrogen is commonly prescribed as a fertility therapy when there is a need to develop cervical mucus or an appropriate uterine lining.
Contraception
Synthetic estrogen is most commonly used as a birth-control drug. These drugs work by inhibiting the production and secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone.