← Genes & pathways

Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

ESR1

ESR1 encodes estrogen receptor alpha, which helps cells respond to estrogen. Receptor signaling is different from the amount of estrogen measured in blood.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Estrogen signaling depends on the receptor

Estrogen signaling depends on the receptor

ESR1 encodes estrogen receptor alpha, which helps cells respond to estrogen. Receptor signaling is different from the amount of estrogen measured in blood.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser connects ESR1 with hormone response and breast-health questions. A wellness SNP does not on its own diagnose elevated estrogen or establish breast-cancer risk. The useful review combines symptoms, hormone use, menstrual or menopausal context and personal and family history.

A question to bring to your visit

Are we discussing hormone levels, receptor-related variation or a clinically established risk factor?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

Estrogen Receptor 1