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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Detecting the Ligand-binding Domain Dimerization Activity of Estrogen Receptor Alpha Using the Mammalian Two-Hybrid Assay
Published on: December 19, 2018
Estrogen receptor modulators: relationships of ligand structure, receptor affinity and functional activity
Owen B Wallace1, Timothy I Richardson, Jeffrey A Dodge
1Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA. owen.wallace@lilly.com
Abstract:
The estrogen receptor is a regulator of a wide range of physiological functions, including the female reproductive system, in addition to bone, cardiovascular and CNS function. ER ligands have been approved for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, breast cancer and osteoporosis, however the search continues for new modulators of ER function with improved properties. Progress in medicinal chemistry programs has resulted in the identification of structurally diverse molecules with unique biological properties. Recent advances in the design and synthesis of these non-steroidal and steroidal estrogen receptor ligands is reviewed. The relationship between the structural features of the ligand and receptor function is also discussed.
Insights
Researchers are exploring novel estrogen receptor (ER) ligands for improved therapeutic properties. This review covers recent advances in designing diverse steroidal and non-steroidal ER modulators and their structure-activity relationships.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and pharmacology
- Medicinal chemistry
Background:
- The estrogen receptor (ER) regulates critical physiological functions, including reproduction, bone health, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system (CNS).
- Existing ER ligands are approved for treating menopausal symptoms, breast cancer, and osteoporosis, but new modulators with enhanced properties are sought.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the design and synthesis of novel steroidal and non-steroidal estrogen receptor ligands.
- To discuss the structure-activity relationships of these diverse ER modulators.
Main Methods:
- Review of medicinal chemistry literature focusing on estrogen receptor ligand design and synthesis.
- Analysis of structure-activity relationships for identified steroidal and non-steroidal compounds.
Main Results:
- Identification of structurally diverse molecules with unique biological properties through medicinal chemistry efforts.
- Advances in the design and synthesis of novel ER ligands.
Conclusions:
- The ongoing search for improved ER modulators continues.
- Understanding the relationship between ligand structure and ER function is crucial for developing new therapeutics.
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