Estriol Blocks Breast Cancer Gene Activation

New science is shining the light on the fact that the different forms of estrogen have a profoundly different risk profile for potential breast cancer.  It has been known for years that E2 (estradiol), the form of estrogen associated with the menstrual cycle, can—especially in combination with other metabolic malfunction—cause breast cancer.  A new study shows that E3 (estriol) has the opposite effect, actually blocking the breast cancer gene signals that are activated by E2.  This finding is of major significance for any woman looking for strategies to help reduce breast cancer risk.

The older molecular science had demonstrated that via estradiol’s activation of estrogen receptors there was an increased risk for breast cancer. The new gene science shows that estradiol is activating something called G protein-coupled receptor 30¹ (GPR30) that is turning on growth in a variety of female cancers.  The newest study shows that estriol directly blocks the activation of GPR30², in turn preventing the activation of a variety of genes that fuel breast cancer growth.  It has long been observed that estriol appeared protective against female cancers – here is the first proof of the mechanism.

Many women suffer from high estradiol. Symptoms include heavy menstrual cycles, headaches with menstrual cycle. Stress and digestive problems aggravate these issues. A woman in her early forties often has increased estradiol production prior to menopause (again reflected by heavier cycles).  Any of these factors fuel estrogen-driven cancer risk. While any women with the symptoms of high estrogen menstrual cycles should work diligently to improve the underlying health problems that are causing this issue, it appears that estriol is protective and along with progesterone Steroid hormone produced in ovaries and adrenal glands that is involved with female menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embyro development. could be used to promote a healthier condition of balance between these important female hormones.