17β-Estradiol-d₂is intended for use as an internal standard for the quantification of 17β-estradiol by GC- or LC-MS. 17β-Estradiol is the major estrogen secreted by the premenopausal ovary. It is synthesized from testosterone primarily in the ovarian granulosa cells and placenta, but small amounts can be produced in the adrenal gland.^1,2Plasma 17β-estradiol levels increase gradually between days 1-7 of the menstrual cycle followed by a sharp increase to a peak value of about 300 pg/ml on day 12, just prior to ovulation.^3,4

1.Vance, D.E.Cholesterol and related derivativesBiochemistry2nd ed.725-748(1988) 2.Miller, W.L., and Tyrrell, J.B.The adrenal cortexEndocrinology and Metabolism3rd edition555-711(1995) 3.Erickson, G.F.The ovary: Basic principles and concepts. A. PhysiologyEndocrinology and Metabolism3rd ed.973-1015(1995) 4.Munro, C.J., Stabenfeldt, G.H., Cragun, J.R., et al.Relationship of serum estradiol and progesterone concentrations to the excretion profiles of their major urinary metabolites as measured by enzyme immunoassay and radioimmunoassayClin. Chem.37(6)838-844(1991)