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Updated: Jun 24, 2025

Visualization of Estrogen Receptors in Colons of Mice with TNBS-Induced Crohn's Disease using Immunofluorescence
Published on: March 12, 2020
Advances in immune regulation of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor
Hanzhi Dong1, Xiaoqiang Zeng2, Jiawei Xu3
1Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China.
Abstract:
Estrogen and related receptors have been shown to have a significant impact on human development, reproduction, metabolism and immune regulation and to play a critical role in tumor development and treatment. Traditionally, the nuclear estrogen receptors (nERs) ERα and ERβ have been thought to be involved in mediating the estrogenic effects. However, our group and others have previously demonstrated that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is the third independent ER, and estrogen signaling mediated by GPER is known to play an important role in normal physiology and a variety of abnormal diseases. Interestingly, recent studies have progressively revealed GPER involvement in the maintenance of the normal immune system, abnormal immune diseases, and inflammatory lesions, which may be of significant clinical value primarily in the immunotherapy of tumors. In this article, we review current advances in GPER-related immunomodulators and provide a theoretical basis and potential clinical targets to ameliorate immune-related diseases and immunotherapy for tumors.
Insights
The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a key player in immune regulation and diseases. Targeting GPER offers potential for novel cancer immunotherapies and treatments for immune-related conditions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Estrogen receptors (ERs) influence development, reproduction, metabolism, and immunity.
- Nuclear ERs (ERα, ERβ) were traditionally recognized; G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is now identified as a third independent ER.
- GPER-mediated estrogen signaling is crucial in physiology and various diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current advancements in GPER-related immunomodulators.
- To provide a theoretical foundation for targeting GPER in immune diseases and cancer immunotherapy.
- To identify potential clinical targets for GPER-based therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GPER and immunomodulation.
- Analysis of GPER's role in immune system maintenance and disease.
- Exploration of GPER's implications in tumor immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- GPER is increasingly recognized for its role in immune system regulation.
- GPER involvement is noted in abnormal immune diseases and inflammatory lesions.
- GPER modulation shows promise for cancer immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- GPER is a significant target for modulating immune responses.
- GPER-based strategies may offer new avenues for treating immune-related diseases.
- Targeting GPER holds potential for enhancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy.
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