Prognostic significance of oestrogen receptor β in breast cancer

Abstract

Abstract Background Endocrine therapy for breast cancer is now well established and with the identification of a second oestrogen receptor, ERβ, 3 years ago it is timely to review the possible significance of this receptor in breast cancer management. Methods An up-to-date review of the current literature concerning the role and possible implications of ERβ in human breast cancer was undertaken. Results Wild-type and variant ERβ are expressed in human breast tumours. Expression of ERβ correlates with accepted prognostic indicators including lymph node status and tumour grade. Furthermore, levels of ERβ messenger RNA alter during carcinogenesis and are upregulated in breast tumours that develop antioestrogen resistance. Conclusion ERβ has potential as a novel clinical prognostic marker in breast cancer, particularly in determining tumours that are resistant to tamoxifen.