How are COMT and menopause related?

COMT and menopause are linked through estrogen metabolism. COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) degrades catechol estrogens; the common Val158Met polymorphism reduces enzyme activity. This can lead to higher levels of estrogen metabolites, potentially influencing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and even the timing of menopause. Some studies report that women with the low-activity (Met) variant experience more severe vasomotor symptoms, while others find no association. There is also interest in COMT and breast cancer risk due to altered estrogen clearance. However, effect sizes are small, and lifestyle, hormone levels, and other genes are more impactful. Evidence is moderate but not robust enough for clinical guidance. The provided context does not address COMT or menopause.