Non-classical estrogen receptors action on human dermal fibroblasts

Objective: To study the possible non-genomic effect of selective estrogen receptor modulators on human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). Materials and Methods: WS1 cells were used to test the effect of raloxifene. The mRNA expressions of estrogen receptor (ER) α and β and G protein-coupled ER 1(GRP30) were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Apoptosis was identified by TUNEL assay and FACS analysis. MAPK and PI3 K/Akt pathways were determined by immunoblotting analysis. Results: Neither ERα nor ERβ, but GPR30 was detected in WS1 cells. Raloxifene increased apoptosis, which was blocked by pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of G protein, or by LY294002. Phosphorylated p38 MAPK and Akt were also increased after raloxifene treatment. Conclusion: SERMs could induce apoptosis of HDF through G protein and PI3 K/Akt signaling, which may help understand the role of SERMs on the skin.