The Effects of Estradiol, Androgens and the Selective Estrogen Modulators: Ospemifene, Raloxifene and Tamoxifen on Explant Cultures of Human Breast Tissue

This study investigated the effects of estradiol (E2), androgens, and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) on human breast tissue explants to understand the potential risks of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) related to breast cancer. The research found that E2 and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) increased cell proliferation, while androgens like testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) inhibited proliferation and increased apoptosis, counteracting E2's effects. Postmenopausal breast tissues were more sensitive to E2 than premenopausal ones. SERMs such as ospemifene, raloxifene, and tamoxifen showed antiproliferative effects. The study concluded that including androgens in MHT might reduce breast cancer risk by opposing E2-induced proliferation.