Bisphenol A and its derivatives are recognized endocrine disruptors based on their complex effects on estrogen receptor (ER) signaling. While the effects of bisphenol derivatives on ERα have been thoroughly evaluated, how these chemicals affect ERβ signaling is not well understood. Herein, we identified novel ERβ ligands by screening a chemical library of bisphenol derivatives. Many of the compounds identified showed intriguing dual activities as ERα agonists and ERβ antagonists. Docking simulations suggested that these compounds act as coactivator binding inhibitors (CBIs). Direct binding experiments using wild-type and mutated ERβ demonstrated the presence of a second ligand interaction position at the coactivator binding site in ERβ. Our study is the first to propose that bisphenol derivatives act as CBIs, presenting a critical view point for future ER signaling-based drug development.
Bisphenol A derivatives act as novel coactivator binding inhibitors for estrogen receptor β
