Distribution and effects of estrogen receptors in male reproductive system
Jiang, C.-x.; Pan, L.-j.; Huang, Y.-f.
Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue 13(6): 550-553
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 1009-3591 PMID: 17615984 Document Number: 612972
Estrogen plays an important role in the regulation of male reproduction. Through binding with the estrogen receptor (ER), estrogen produces genomic and non-genomic effects. Estrogen receptors include ERalpha and ERbeta which distribute in the male reproductive system including the testis, epididymis, prostate and penis. The spermatogenesis is impaired in mice with ERalpha gene knockout; however, it remains normal in mice with ERbeta gene knockout. This phenomenon suggests that the two subtypes of ER play different roles in spermatogenesis. Moreover, ERalpha or ERbeta may also act as a substitute of another.