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Screening for Phytoestrogens using a Cell-based Estrogen Receptor β Reporter Assay
Published on: June 7, 2020
Selective estrogen receptor modulators and phytoestrogens
Tawakalitu Oseni1, Roshani Patel, Jennifer Pyle
1Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497, USA.
Abstract:
Scientific achievements in the last two decades have revolutionized the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. This is mainly because of targeted therapies and a better understanding of the relationship between estrogen, its receptor, and breast cancer. One of these discoveries is the use of synthetic selective estrogen modulators (SERMs) such as tamoxifen in the treatment strategy for estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. Hundreds of thousands of lives have been saved because of this advance. Not only is tamoxifen used in the treatment strategy for patients who have breast cancer, but also for prevention in high-risk premenopausal women. Another synthetic SERM, raloxifene, which was initially used to prevent osteoporosis, is also as effective as tamoxifen for prevention in high-risk postmenopausal women. In certain regions of the world, particularly in Asia, a low incidence of breast cancer has been observed. These women have diets that are high in soy and low in fat, unlike the Western diet. Interest in the protective effects of soy derivatives has led to the research of phytoestrogens and metabolites of soy that are described by some as natural SERMs. As a result, many clinical questions have been raised as to whether phytoestrogens, which are also found in other natural foods, can protect against breast cancer. This article reviews the development and role of the more common SERMs, tamoxifen and raloxifene. In addition, this paper will also highlight the emerging studies on phytoestrogens and their similarity and dissimilarity to SERMs.
Insights
Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) like tamoxifen have revolutionized breast cancer treatment and prevention. Research is exploring natural SERMs, such as soy-derived phytoestrogens, for their potential protective effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Breast cancer treatment has been significantly advanced by targeted therapies, particularly those involving estrogen receptor (ER) pathways.
- Synthetic selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, have proven effective in treating and preventing ER-positive breast cancer and osteoporosis.
- Observed lower breast cancer incidence in Asian populations with soy-rich diets has spurred interest in phytoestrogens as natural SERMs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and established roles of tamoxifen and raloxifene as key SERMs in breast cancer management.
- To explore emerging research on phytoestrogens, their potential as natural SERMs, and their relationship to synthetic counterparts.
- To address clinical questions regarding the efficacy of phytoestrogens in breast cancer prevention.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific achievements in breast cancer treatment and prevention over the last two decades.
- Analysis of the role of estrogen, its receptor, and targeted therapies, including SERMs.
- Examination of epidemiological data on breast cancer incidence related to diet, specifically soy consumption.
- Review of studies on phytoestrogens and their comparison to synthetic SERMs.
Main Results:
- Synthetic SERMs, tamoxifen and raloxifene, have saved numerous lives by enabling targeted treatment and prevention strategies for ER-positive breast cancer and osteoporosis.
- Phytoestrogens, found in soy and other natural foods, are being investigated for their potential cancer-protective properties, drawing parallels to synthetic SERMs.
- Clinical research is ongoing to understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of phytoestrogens in breast cancer prevention.
Conclusions:
- Synthetic SERMs represent a major breakthrough in breast cancer therapy and prevention.
- Phytoestrogens show promise as natural agents for breast cancer prevention, warranting further investigation into their mechanisms and clinical applications.
- Understanding the similarities and differences between natural and synthetic SERMs is crucial for advancing breast cancer research and patient care.
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