Developmental and physiological effects of estrogen receptor gene disruption in mice.
Disruption of the estrogen receptor (ER) gene in mice causes infertility in both sexes. Infertility in female ER knockout (ERKO) mice results from altered development of accessory sex structures, disrupted endocrine physiology, and disrupted gametogenesis. Male accessory sex structures appear relatively normal, with infertility stemming from altered sexual behaviors and disrupted gametogenesis. These findings provide significant insights into the biological importance of the ER and suggest further areas for examining the impact of estrogens on reproductive biology.
Lindzey
J
J
Receptor Biology Section, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology, National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
Korach
K S
KS