Hormone receptors are proteins residing within the cell which specifically bind to the appropriate hormone. This hormone receptor complex subsequently stimulates the cell to undergo a physiological function such as cell division. In women with breast cancer, these receptors are present in approximately 50% of all women and are powerful prognostic indicators of survival and response to hormone (or antihormonal) therapy.
Special molecules on cells that interpret the signal being sent by hormones.
molecules that carry hormones into the cell nucleus. Hormone receptors are present in both normal breast cells and cancerous breast cells.
Proteins in a cell which bind to specific hormones. This binding stimulates the cell to act in a certain way. These receptors are present in about 50% of all women with breast cancer. Women with plenty of hormone receptors are likely to respond to hormone treatments, and are more likely to do well than women without hormone receptors.
Present within liver cyst cells. An increase in circulating hormones causes liver cysts to grow and expand.
Proteins on the cell surface which admit substances to that cell. These substances may be hormones, drugs, or toxins similar in structure to the receptor's target hormone.
Specific proteins on breast cells that hormones attach to. A high number of hormone receptors often indicates that a cancer cell needs the hormone to grow.
special proteins on, or in cells to which hormones attach. Attachment (binding) of the hormone to the receptor will cause the endocrine effect of the hormone. Can be disrupted by Xenoestrogen hormones from pesticides and other chemicals. See Xenoestrogens
indicators on the surface of some cancer cells that suggest the cancer depends on hormones to help it grow, and it may thus respond to hormone treatment.