The gene regulatory networks controlled by estrogens

Estrogen signaling occurs widely among vertebrates and in some invertebrates. Estrogen action is mediated by estrogen receptors through the regulation of target gene expression. Estrogen mediated control of gene expression is a complex process including ligand–receptor interactions, receptor–DNA interactions and receptor–cofactor interactions. Recent technological advances allow global analysis of gene expression and protein–DNA interactions facilitating a description of estrogen controlled gene regulatory networks. This paper reviews the current knowledge of estrogen regulation of gene expression and subsequent gene regulatory networks with focus on studies using human cell lines and mouse models.