Oestrogens and 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (1,25-D3) are steroids that can provide effects by binding to their receptors localised in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus or the plasma membrane respectively inducing genomic and non-genomic effects. As confirmed notably by invalidation of the genes, coding for their receptors as tested with mice with in vivo and in vitro treatments, oestrogens and 1,25-D3...

In addition to hormonal activity, genetic damage has been proposed as an important factor in oestrogen-mediated carcinogenesis. However, as short-term tests for oestrogens usually fail to show DNA mutations, lesions other than classic nuclear DNA mutation have to be considered. Oestrogen-induced mitochondrial damage was studied in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Stilbene-type, but not stero...

The effect of three oestrogens (including an oestrogen-progestogen combination) on the postexercise electrocardiogram was studied in 33 men and 18 women who earlier had shown ST segment abnormalities after exercise. When pretreatment exercise tests were compared with tests after two weeks of treatment, the postexercise ST segments which were abnormal before treatment became even more abnormal i...

As oestrogen deficiency is the main cause in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis hormonereplacement therapy remains the mainstay for prevention. However, prophylaxis by hormonereplacement therapy is limited. Phyto-oestrogens, which are weakly-oestrogenic compounds present in plants, deserve particular mention because emerging data support the suggestion that they may prevent bone loss associated w...

Oestrogens exert important effects on the reproductive as well as many other organ systems in both men and women. The history of the discovery of oestrogens, the mechanisms of their synthesis, and their therapeutic applications are very important components of the fabric of endocrinology. These aspects provide the rationale for highlighting several key components of this story. Two investigator...

The established role of oestrogen in the development and progression of breast cancer raises questions concerning a potential contribution from the many chemicals in the environment which can enter the human breast and which have oestrogenic activity. A range of organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls possess oestrogen-mimicking properties and have been measured in human breast ...

The Iberian Lynx Ex-Situ Conservation Programme is an essential part of a co-ordinated action plan to conserve the most endangered felid species of the world. Successful captive breeding demands reliable methods for reproduction monitoring including reliable non-invasive pregnancy diagnosis. During a 3-year study, urine samples from six captive Iberian lynx females were obtained (one non-pregna...