[Molecular basis and tissue specificity of the progestins action]

The review considers the effect of progestins on the function, proliferation, and apoptosis of cells of various organs in health and noncancerous disorders. Data are summarized to describe the mechanism of progestin action through various progesterone receptors and sensors and the regulation of their levels. The effects of progestins depend on the cell phenotype, including the composition and proportion of different receptors, activity of signaling pathways, and expression of transcription factor coregulators and steroid metabolism enzymes. The role paracrine regulation plays in the progestin effect is described. Particular attention is paid to the progestin effect on the tissues where progestins are thought or known to affect carcinogenesis or to stimulate or suppress the tumor growth, that is, to modulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition.