| abstract |
Compositions and methods for regulating the intra-conversion of estradiol/estrone or testosterone/androstenedione are provided herein. The compositions include a liposome carrier component; and a moiety externally attached thereto, which is targeted for a site in the body associated with aberrant production of estradiol or testosterone, or leaky blood vessels thereat. The inventive compositions also include an isolated or recombinant HSD-Type 2 polypeptide or nucleic acid form that is encapsulated by the liposome carrier component. The compositions are of use in overcoming the deficient expression of 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-Type 2 in endometriotic tissues. An HSD-Type 2 polypeptide or nucleic acid form can be delivered to a target cell, enzyme, or cytokine at the endometriotic implant site, or to leaky blood vessels within the implant. A label capable of external detection can be further included in the composition. |