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Estrogen receptor-like macromolecule in MtTW15 rat pituitary tumors: effects of antiestrogens

R C Winneker, W V Welshons, J A Parsons

    Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
    |September 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Estradiol-17 beta (E2) influences MtTW15 rat pituitary tumors by binding to an estrogen receptor. Antiestrogenic drugs affected receptor levels, promoting tumor growth and hormone production, suggesting mixed agonist/antagonist properties.

    Area of Science:

    • Endocrinology
    • Molecular Biology
    • Cancer Research

    Background:

    • Estradiol-17 beta (E2) is a key hormone influencing various physiological processes.
    • Pituitary tumors, such as MtTW15, can exhibit hormone-dependent growth and function.
    • Understanding hormone-receptor interactions is crucial for developing targeted therapies.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the presence and characteristics of the estrogen receptor in MtTW15 rat pituitary tumors.
    • To evaluate the impact of antiestrogenic drugs on estrogen receptor levels, tumor growth, and hormone production in this model.

    Main Methods:

    • Cytosolic E2 binding assays were performed on MtTW15 tumors.
    • Sucrose density gradient sedimentation and saturation analysis were used to characterize the E2 binding macromolecule.
    • The effects of four antiestrogenic drugs on tumor parameters were assessed.

    Main Results:

    • Specific, high-affinity estrogen binding (Kd = 5.5 x 10(-10) M) was detected in MtTW15 tumors.
    • The E2 binding macromolecule exhibited characteristics of an estrogen receptor (7S, steroid-specific, temperature-sensitive, trypsin-degradable).
    • Antiestrogenic drugs generally decreased receptor levels, promoted tumor growth, and increased growth hormone production.

    Conclusions:

    • MtTW15 rat pituitary tumors possess a functional estrogen receptor.
    • The evaluated antiestrogenic compounds demonstrated both estrogen agonist and antagonist properties in this tumor model.
    • These findings suggest complex hormonal regulation in pituitary tumors and potential therapeutic strategies.

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