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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Deficient Pms2, ERCC1, Ku86, CcOI in Field Defects During Progression to Colon Cancer
Published on: July 29, 2010
Oestrogen and the colon: potential mechanisms for cancer prevention
Rory Kennelly1, Dara O Kavanagh, Aisling M Hogan
1Department of Surgery, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. kennellyrory@yahoo.ie
Abstract:
The role of oestrogen in oncogenesis has been examined extensively, especially in the context of breast cancer, and receptor modulators are an integral part of targeted treatment in this disease. The role of oestrogen signalling in colonic carcinoma is poorly understood. Men are more susceptible than women to colon cancer. Furthermore, hormone-replacement therapy affords an additive protective effect for postmenopausal women, and when these women do develop cancer, they typically have less aggressive disease. The discovery of a second oestrogen receptor (ERbeta) and its over expression in healthy human colon coupled with reduced expression in colon cancer suggests that this receptor might be involved. The underlying mechanism, however, remains largely unknown. In this Review, we discuss the various hypotheses presented in the published literature. We examine the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which oestrogen is purported to exert its protective influence, and we review the evidence available to support these claims.
Insights
Oestrogen
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Oestrogen's role in breast cancer is well-established, with modulators used in treatment.
- Oestrogen signalling in colon cancer is poorly understood, despite men's higher susceptibility.
- Hormone replacement therapy shows a protective effect in postmenopausal women, correlating with less aggressive disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current hypotheses on oestrogen's role in colon cancer.
- To examine cellular and molecular mechanisms of oestrogen's purported protective influence.
- To assess evidence supporting oestrogen's protective effects in colon cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies on oestrogen and colon cancer.
- Analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms.
- Evaluation of existing evidence for oestrogen's role.
Main Results:
- Oestrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) is overexpressed in healthy colon but reduced in colon cancer.
- Hypotheses suggest oestrogen may exert a protective influence.
- Evidence for these protective mechanisms is under review.
Conclusions:
- The precise role of oestrogen and ERbeta in colon cancer pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
- Understanding these mechanisms could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.
- Further research is needed to confirm oestrogen's protective role and its clinical implications.
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