The progesterone receptor (PR) protein is encoded by the gene PGR on chromosome 11 (11q22.1). This nuclear receptor plays a crucial role in mediating the effects of the hormone progesterone. The PR protein has 933 amino acids, with a molecular weight of approximately 116 kDa. Post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, glycosylation, and disulfide bond formation regulate the activity and stability of PR. The main function of the PR protein is to modulate gene expression in response to progesterone signaling, thereby regulating various physiological processes, including reproductive function, pregnancy maintenance, and mammary gland development.
PR is expressed and localized within the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells of the uterus, ovaries, mammary glands, and certain regions of the brain. Hormonal stimuli tightly regulate its expression, with levels fluctuating throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Dysregulation of PR signaling has been associated with various health conditions and diseases, including infertility, endometriosis, and certain types of cancers, such as breast cancer and endometrial cancer. In breast cancer, aberrant PR expression or loss of PR function impacts tumor growth and response to hormonal therapies. In this sense, PR expression has been utilized as a marker of certain disease states, particularly in breast cancer, where its presence or absence can provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information, helping to guide treatment decisions and predict patient outcomes.
Targeting this protein could inhibit or modulate PR-mediated transcriptional activity in therapeutic applications. Small molecule inhibitors of PR have been developed and investigated in preclinical and clinical studies. Notable examples include mifepristone and onapristone, which act as PR antagonists and have shown promise in preclinical models of hormone-sensitive cancers.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against PR that have been validated for immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, as well as a HuProt validated option. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to PR antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/shop/?s=PROGESTERONE+RECEPTOR].
Synonyms
Progesterone receptor, Nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 3, NR3C3, Nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 3, PGR, PR, PRA, PRB, Progesterone receptor form A, Progesterone receptor form B
Research Areas
Breast Cancer, Cardiovascular, Signal Transduction, Transcription Factors
