Fig. 2From: The protective role of estrogen and estrogen receptors in cardiovascular disease and the controversial use of estrogen therapySummary of the likely protective mechanisms of estrogen against cardiovascular disease. Illustration of the possible beneficial effects of estrogen for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic heart disease and heart failure. The protective effect of estrogen in cardiovascular disease is associated with reduced fibrosis, stimulation of angiogenesis, and vasodilation, improved mitochondrial function, and reduced oxidative stress. Abbreviations: VEGF vascular endothelial growth factor, eNOS endothelial nitric oxide synthase, AngII angiotensin II, MMP2 matrix metalloproteinase 2, ROS reactive oxygen species, FAO fatty acid oxidationBack to article page