The estrogen receptor is a protein found in the nucleus of certain cells, to which female hormones (estrogens) bind. This receptor is normally found in cells of the ovary and endometrium.
The binding of estrogens to their receptor occurs thanks to the structural complementarity between these molecules, like in a lock and key system. This binding leads to a series of chemical reactions that culminate in the expression of certain genes.
In the case of breast cancer, this expression translates into cell proliferation. Thus, it is said that breast cancer is dependent on female hormones for its development and progression whenever there is expression of estrogen receptors. For this reason, hormone therapy is used in these cases.
To learn more about breast cancer, see the “Breast Cancer” section.
To learn more about hormone therapy, see the “Frequently Asked Questions – Hormone Therapy” section.
