Abstract
Problem: Although estrogen receptor (ER)-α has been well characterized, the recently identified novel ER-β has not. In some tissues, there is overlap of the ERs, which allows for rescue in cases of deficiency; in other tissues, the ERs appear to have opposite effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of ER-β during pregnancy. Method of study: Pregnant mouse uteri (embryonic days 6-14, 16, 18) were studied. ER-α and ER-β oligonucleotide probes were end-labeled and in situ hybridization histochemistry was performed. Results: ER-β was strongly expressed in maternal ovaries; there was no other evidence of strong expression during gestation. ER-α was expressed in the uterus throughout gestation, with decreasing intensity as gestation progressed, and in maternal ovarian tissue. Conclusions: Differential expression of the two ERs was apparent during pregnancy, with ER-α playing a dominant role. This may have implications for selective drug treatment targeting estrogen receptors.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 249-252 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | American Journal of Reproductive Immunology |
Volume | 44 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2000 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Estrogen receptor alpha
- Estrogen receptor beta
- Pregnancy
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Immunology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology