17beta-Estradiol: a novel hormone for improving immune and cardiovascular responses following trauma-hemorrhage.

17beta-Estradiol (i.e., estrogen or E2) is a female sex steroid, which plays an essential role in female reproductive physiology. However, several lines of evidence indicate that in addition to its role in reproductive physiology, E2 is critical for maintaining many other organ functions in stress conditions. These include immune, cardiovascular, and neuronal functions, as well as regulation of skin, bone, and lipid metabolism. Studies have examined the role of E2 as an adjunct in post-trauma responses, and this article will review whether E2 as an adjunct to fluid resuscitation following trauma-hemorrhage plays any role in improving/restoring immune and cardiovascular functions.