TLDR The androgen receptor's shape-changing ability helps it function but can lead to cancer treatment resistance.
The androgen receptor (AR) is a nuclear receptor involved in male secondary sex characteristics and various diseases, including prostate cancer and androgenic alopecia. AR's structure includes two intrinsically disordered regions and two ordered domains, allowing it to bind a wide range of ligands and partners. Mutations in AR can lead to drug resistance in prostate cancer by widening the ligand binding domain, enabling promiscuous binding. AR's structural plasticity is crucial for its function and adaptability, but can also contribute to disease states. Further structural and biochemical studies are needed to fully understand AR's complex regulation.
129 citations,
January 2004 in “Journal of medicinal chemistry” Researchers developed new compounds that target the androgen receptor effectively with fewer side effects.
209 citations,
March 1998 in “Biochemical and biophysical research communications” Scientists found new nonsteroidal compounds that can act like natural male hormones and might help treat male fertility and hormone issues.
124 citations,
July 2012 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” Targeting androgen receptors could be a promising way to treat skin disorders with fewer side effects.
100 citations,
September 2017 in “Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology” Male hormones and their receptors play a key role in hair loss and skin health, with potential new treatments being explored.
1 citations,
January 2022 in “Journal of Biosciences and Medicines” Understanding how androgens and their receptors work can lead to improved treatments for skin diseases.
100 citations,
April 2010 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Hair loss in men treated best with early medication or transplant, new treatments researched.
1 citations,
January 2022 in “European Journal of Pharmacology” Riboflavin 5′-phosphate (FMN) shows potential for treating androgen-related conditions but may be limited in treating prostate cancer.
