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Molecular and cellular mechanisms of estrogen action on the skeleton
D J Rickard1, M Subramaniam, T C Spelsberg
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Abstract:
The many recent and exciting advances that have taken place in the field of estrogen action on the skeleton are the subjects of this review. Leading these new developments is the discovery of alternative estrogen receptors that exhibit differential mechanisms of transcriptional control of estrogen-responsive promoters, thereby broadening both the ranges of possible target cells and their responses. More potentially important genes under estrogenic control have been identified in vitro, and the skeletal phenotypes caused by disruption of estrogen signaling due to mutations in humans and mice have been described. Lastly, clinical studies in humans have revealed a greater appreciation for the importance of estrogen in bone mass maintenance in both sexes. J. Cell. Biochem. Suppls. 32/33:123-132, 1999.
Insights
Estrogen
Area of Science:
- Bone Biology and Endocrinology
Background:
- Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining bone mass.
- Recent discoveries have expanded our understanding of estrogen's skeletal actions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in estrogen action on the skeleton.
- To highlight new findings on estrogen receptors and their functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on estrogen signaling in bone.
- Analysis of genetic studies in humans and mice.
- Examination of clinical data on bone mass.
Main Results:
- Discovery of alternative estrogen receptors with distinct transcriptional control mechanisms.
- Identification of novel estrogen-responsive genes.
- Description of skeletal phenotypes from disrupted estrogen signaling.
- Clinical evidence confirms estrogen's importance in bone mass maintenance for both sexes.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen signaling is complex, involving multiple receptors and pathways.
- Estrogen is crucial for skeletal health in both males and females.