Aromatase is an enzyme that converts male hormones into female hormones, and its inhibitors are used to slow breast cancer growth. Aromatase deficiency can affect sexual development, while excess can cause breast enlargement in males. Aromatase inhibitors are only used in postmenopausal women, and natural alternatives are being studied. Hormonal imbalances can cause problems, and excess estrogen in males can lead to breast enlargement.
An aromatase is a type of human enzyme, which is a protein that speeds up chemical processes. This enzyme converts male androgen hormones into female estrogen within the body of individuals of both genders. Aromatase inhibitors are generally used to slow the expansion of breast cancer cells in women. Aromatase deficiency is known to prevent the normal development of some sexual characteristics at birth or puberty. Aromatase excess syndrome in males generally results in gyno or breast enlargement.
The leading cause of cancer-related death is metastasis, which refers to the spread of cancerous cells beyond the point of the original tumor. Estrogen is known to act as a catalyst for breast cancer cell growth. Aromatase inhibitors are sometimes used in combination with other breast cancer therapies to shrink or slow the growth of cancerous tumors. Inhibitors available by prescription include anastrozole, exemestane and letrozole. Some natural bioflavonoids, such as resveratrol and quercetin, are being studied in relation to their potential as alternative aromatase inhibitors.
Breast cancer treatment with inhibitory drugs is typically only attempted in postmenopausal women because aromatase inhibitors cannot stop the ovaries from producing estrogen. The production of aromatase can occur in many parts of the female body outside of the sexual organs. These may include some muscle tissue, bone marrow, bone and liver.
A hormone imbalance can be problematic whether there is too much or not enough of certain enzymes present in the body. Aromatose deficiency is a rare condition that develops in utero and typically only becomes apparent during puberty. Girls with this deficiency may fail to develop normal female sexual characteristics. Boys tend to have normal or near-normal sex characteristics, but will be abnormally tall and be at risk for osteoporosis.
An excess of estrogen in men or boys can lead to gynecomastia or abnormal breast enlargement. This condition is common in pubescent boys and usually ends without treatment within a few months. Sometimes it develops in middle-aged men as a result of the shift in hormonal balance due to aging.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
