β-estradiol is a natural human?estrogen. It is vital for the growth of breast and reproductive epithelia, maturation of long bones and development of secondary sexual characteristics. Estradiol is produced by immature germ cells, spermatozoa, Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. β-estradiol acts as a menopausal hormones. It is involved in replacement therapy for female hypogonadism or primary ovarian failure. Reduced levels of β-estradiol are linked to heart disease and osteoporosis. Estradiol plays a critical role in proliferation, modulation of ion transport and control of apoptosis in Sertoli cells. It maintains sperm concentration, motility and morphology.
