ERS2

The ESR2 gene regulates estrogen receptor beta activity which is involved in hormone binding and activation, and also regulating gene transcription. ESR2 is thought in some cases to reduce the effect of the estrogen (natural and synthetic) that binds to it. It has been observed that tumour tissue shows an increase in ESR1 and a decrease in ESR2. Since estrogen is also protective against heart disease, ESR2 has been linked to cardiovascular health, particularly in conjunction with hormone therapy such as the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which can increase risk.