Q. 17.84 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

How do estrogen and the estrogen receptor influence cancer growth of mammary cells?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Estrogen is the hormone which activates the estrogen receptors in the breast and ovaries, and the bonding between estrogen and its receptors can cause an increase in the cells which can cause breast cancer.

Step 1: Given Information

We have to find out the function of estrogen and estrogen receptors in the case of cancers.

Step 2: Explanation

Estrogen is a hormone that flows in the blood stream and raises the cells in the breasts and ovaries. The bonding between estrogen and estrogen receptors to DNA increases the mutation and the production of mammary glands that can cause cancer in the breasts and ovaries. There are many drugs such as tamoxifen which can reduce the bonding by blocking them and it will automatically reduce the cancer.