Biological properties of 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone: implications in estrogen physiology and pathophysiology.

Metabolism of estradiol in men with cirrhosis and subjects with systemic lupus erythematosus results in an excessive formation of 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone. Examination of the biological activity of this metabolite showed that it is a potent uterotropic agent and that it exhibits minimal affinity for the human sex hormone-binding globulin. These biological characteristics are consistent with a hyperestrongenic response to the substance, which may be reflected in the pathology and etiology of these diseases.