Human Progesterone Receptor (PGR) Protein

Background

Progesterone receptor (PGR) is a nuclear receptor that mediates the effects of progesterone, a steroid hormone involved in regulating the female reproductive system and various physiological processes PGR plays a key role in processes such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis It functions by binding to progesterone, which activates the receptor and induces changes in gene expression that control cell differentiation, apoptosis, and immune responses During pregnancy, PGR helps maintain uterine function and supports the development of the fetus In the menstrual cycle, it helps regulate the endometrial lining, preparing it for implantation of a fertilized egg In addition, PGR is involved in the regulation of breast tissue, where its activation is essential for mammary gland development and function Dysregulation of PGR signaling has been associated with various diseases, including hormone-driven cancers like breast cancer and endometrial cancer, where altered progesterone signaling contributes to tumor growth and progression PGR is also a target for therapies such as progestins used in birth control and hormone replacement therapies