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Updated: Jul 30, 2026
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Profiling of Estrogen-regulated MicroRNAs in Breast Cancer Cells
Published on: February 21, 2014
The SEEM: selective estrogen enzyme modulators in breast cancer
J R Pasqualini1, C Ebert, G S Chetrite
1Solvay Arzncimittel, Hannover, Germany.
Summary
Selective Estrogen Enzyme Modulators (SEEM) target key enzymes in breast cancer tissue. These agents can inhibit estradiol biosynthesis enzymes or stimulate estrogen sulfate production, offering a novel breast cancer treatment strategy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Human breast cancer tissue possesses enzymes for estradiol biosynthesis and estrogen sulfate formation.
- Estradiol biosynthesis involves estrone sulfatase, 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase.
- Sulfotransferase activity leads to the production of inactive estrogen sulfates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the concept of Selective Estrogen Enzyme Modulators (SEEM) for breast cancer treatment.
- To highlight the role of specific progestins and tibolone in modulating estrogen metabolism.
- To explore novel therapeutic strategies targeting estrogen pathways in breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data on enzyme activities in breast cancer tissue.
- Analysis of the effects of progestins (promegestone, nomegestrol acetate, medrogestone) and tibolone on key enzymes.
- Consideration of aromatase inhibitors in conjunction with SEEM.
Main Results:
- Progestins and tibolone inhibit sulfatase and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities.
- These agents also stimulate sulfotransferase activity, increasing estrogen sulfate production.
- Combined inhibition of biosynthesis enzymes and modulation of sulfotransferase activity is achievable.
Conclusions:
- Selective Estrogen Enzyme Modulators (SEEM) represent a new therapeutic concept for breast cancer.
- Targeting both estradiol biosynthesis and estrogen sulfate production offers a dual-action approach.
- Further clinical trials of SEEM in breast cancer patients are warranted.
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