title: Mechanisms of action of antiestrogens.
abstract: Investigators from laboratories worldwide have spent nearly 40 years studying the mechanisms by which the diverse class of compounds known as antiestrogens exert their effects. In this review we present an overview of the work to date that has led to a greater understanding of both the classical and the sometimes unexpected actions which an antiestrogenic compound can have on the growth of a cell. In addition, we review work which has begun to explain the means by which some cells can ultimately become resistant to the action of antiestrogens. We conclude with a discussion of the current directions being followed by researchers in this area, as well as with several comments regarding what physiological activities might be desired in an 'ideal' antiestrogenic compound.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 78284-7884, USA.
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Wolf
authors.forename: S A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Fuqua
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D004351:Drug Resistance; D004965:Estrogen Antagonists / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011960:Receptors, Estrogen / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D004965:Estrogen Antagonists; D011960:Receptors, Estrogen