Introduction

• ERα regulates estrogen effects in various tissues (ovaries, uterus, bone, brain, cardiovascular systems).
• Understanding ERα is crucial for health and disease.

Structure and Mechanism of Action

• ERα has DNA binding, ligand binding, and activation domains.
• Estrogen binding triggers ERα to dimerize and enter the nucleus to activate gene transcription.
• ERα interacts with signalling pathways for broader cellular effects.

Role in Physiological Processes

• Reproductive Health: Manages ovulation and uterine lining; dysfunctions linked to PCOS and endometriosis.
• Bone Health: Maintains bone density; estrogen decline after menopause leads to osteoporosis.
• Cardiovascular Health: Supports heart and vessel health; estrogen decline post-menopause increases heart disease risk.

Implications in Disease

• Breast Cancer: ER+ cancers rely on estrogen; treatments block ERα to improve outcomes.
• Other Cancers: ERα may influence ovarian cancer; inhibition of its signalling is being explored.
• Metabolic Disorders: ERα affects energy metabolism and glucose balance; potential target for metabolic health.