The Estrogen Receptor is a protein found in various tissues throughout the body that binds to the hormone estrogen. This binding activates specific genes, influencing processes such as growth, reproduction, and metabolism. There are two main types of estrogen receptors: ERα and ERβ, each playing distinct roles in different tissues.
Estrogen receptors are crucial in the development and function of the female reproductive system and also impact bone density, cardiovascular health, and brain function. Abnormalities in estrogen receptor activity can lead to conditions like breast cancer and endometriosis, highlighting their importance in health and disease.