Semin Reprod Med 2010; 28(1): 081-090
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1242998
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Role of Progesterone in Endometrial Cancer

J. Julie Kim1 , Eloise Chapman-Davis1 , 2
  • 1Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
  • 2Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
26 January 2010 (online)

ABSTRACT

Progesterone is a key hormone in the endometrium that opposes estrogen-driven growth. Insufficient progesterone will result in unopposed estrogen action that could lead to the development of endometrial hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma. Although these endometrial neoplasias can regress in response to progestin treatment, this does not occur in all instances. To understand this resistance to progesterone and to improve on existing hormonal therapies, it is imperative that the molecular mechanisms of progesterone action through its receptor be deciphered in endometrial cancer. This review highlights what is known thus far regarding the efficacy of progestin therapy in the clinic and the role of progesterone in endometrial cancer cell behavior and gene regulation.

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J. Julie KimPh.D. 

Assistant Professor, Division of Reproductive Biology Research, Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center

Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, 4-117, Chicago, IL 60611

Email: j-kim4@northwestern.edu

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