Centre for Urological Research

Estrogen recpetor and aromatase

Although androgens are essential for normal prostatic development and function, there is increasing evidence that changing levels of estrogen, arising from the conversion of androgen via aromatase enzyme activity in adipose and prostate tissues, is important in regulating prostate growth and susceptibility to disease.

Using aromatase knockout (ArKO) and aromatase over-expressing animals (AROM+), the Centre for Urological Research is investigating the roles of altered endogenous estrogen synthesis in regulating  prostate development and pathology. In addition, they are examining the specific influences of estrogen receptors alpha and beta on regulation of prostate growth and possible involvement of these receptors to the onset of benign and/or malignant prostate disease.