Gene ESR2
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Also known as
ERB, ESRB, NR3A2, estrogen receptor 2, estrogen receptor betaOverview
ESR2 (Estrogen Receptor 2) encodes estrogen receptor beta, which has tissue-specific functions that often complement or antagonize estrogen receptor alpha. ESR2 is highly expressed in the ovary, prostate, lung, and brain, and generally has antiproliferative effects that counter ESR1's growth-promoting activities.Variants in ESR2 have been associated with bone metabolism, prostate cancer risk, and various reproductive phenotypes. Unlike ESR1, ESR2 tends to inhibit cell proliferation and may have protective effects against certain cancers. The balance between ESR1 and ESR2 signaling influences estrogen's net effect on target tissues.
Understanding your ESR2 genetic status provides complementary information to ESR1 about estrogen signaling and its health effects. The relative activity of the two estrogen receptors influences outcomes in bone health, cancer risk, and response to hormonal interventions.