The Estrogen Receptors (ER) belong to the nuclear receptor family that contains a ligand-binding domain that maintains the protein in an inactive conformation unless bound to the hormone. Two ERs are known, ERalpha, classically known as ER, and ERbeta, described long after ERalpha. Activated Estrogen Receptor is a DNA-binding protein capable of inducing many changes in gene expression. The Estrogen Receptor is believed to play an important role in the growth and development of a subset of hormone dependent human breast cancers. ERbeta is expressed in prostate, ovary, and other reproductive organs. Although its steroid specificity is very similar to that of the ERalpha, the molecular mechanisms regulating the transcriptional activity of ERbeta may be distinct from those regulating ERalpha.
Synonyms: Estradiol receptor, Nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group A member 1, estrogen receptor 1, estrogen receptor alpha, oestrogen receptor, steroid hormone receptor
Application: Research Sub CategoryTranscription Factors