Estrogen receptors alpha and beta in non-target organs forhormone action: review of the literature

ABSTRACT

Estrogens are known to influence genetic expression by interfering in cell growth and differentiation throughdifferent mechanisms, both in organs associated with reproduction and in other areas. Recently, the numberof studies investigating these receptors in different tissues by means of the immunohistochemical methodhas been increasing. Another method that has also been used recently is investigation of the expression ofRNA-m at the specific receptors by means of PCR. The effects of estrogen have been analyzed in relationto a significant number of tissue types that are not associated with reproduction, for example bones and thecardiovascular, gastrointestinal, immunological and central nervous systems. Hence, the aim of the presentstudy was to review the literature on estrogen receptors in non-target organs for the action of this hormone,i.e. in organs that are not associated with reproduction.