Estrogen Receptor Binding Assay Method for Endocrine Disruptors Using Fluorescence Polarization

A rapid, simple and nonhazardous assay method for endcrine disruptors was developed using an estrogen receptor (ER) and fluorescence polarization (FP). Among the fluorescent compounds, the 17alpha-fluorescein-labeled estradiol derivative was selected as the most suitable ligand for the ER binding assay, since it showed the highest affinity to ER. In the Scatchard plot analysis, its convex curve exhibited a positive cooperative binding, indicating the induction of a conformational change of the ER with the binding of the ligand to form a dimer and to increase the affinity for the additional ligand. On the basis of the Hill plot analysis, its dissociation constant and Hill coefficient were 10.4 nM and 1.63, respectively. A competitive binding assay with an unlabeled 17beta-estradiol (E2) yielded an IC50 value of 2.82 nM and a Hill coefficient of 1.67, thus providing a Ki value of 0.65 nM. In the same manner, the Hill coefficients for estrone, estriol, diethylstilbestrol, and tamoxifen were determined to be 0.99, 1.17, 1.59, and 2.44, respectively.