4-Fluoroestradiol

4-Fluoroestradiol (pronounced as four-fluoro-est-ra-diol) is a synthetic steroid and estrogen that is used in scientific research. It is a fluorinated derivative of estradiol, a naturally occurring estrogen hormone.

Etymology

The term "4-Fluoroestradiol" is derived from its chemical structure. The "4-Fluoro" part refers to the presence of a fluorine atom at the 4th position of the estradiol molecule. "Estradiol" is derived from "estrus" (Latin for 'gadfly' or 'frenzy') and "diol" (a chemical term referring to a molecule containing two alcohol groups).

Pharmacology

4-Fluoroestradiol has been found to possess high affinity for the estrogen receptor, similar to that of estradiol. However, it has been found to possess reduced estrogenic potency relative to estradiol in functional assays of estrogenic activity.

Related Terms

Estradiol: The parent compound of 4-Fluoroestradiol. It is a naturally occurring estrogen hormone.
Estrogen: A group of hormones that play an essential role in the growth and development of female sexual characteristics and the reproductive process.
Steroid: A type of organic compound that has four rings arranged in a specific molecular configuration. Steroids include hormones, alkaloids, and vitamins.
Affinity: In pharmacology, affinity refers to the strength of attraction between a drug and its receptor.
Estrogen receptor: A group of proteins found inside and on cells. They are receptors that are activated by the hormone estrogen.