Mismatch Repair Protein hMLH1, but not hMSH2, Enhances Estrogen-Induced Apoptosis of Colon Cancer Cells

Background: Epidemiological studies suggest a protective role of estrogen against colon carcinogenesis; this effect appears to be dependent on mismatch repair (MMR) status. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study investigated the role of MMR proteins in apoptosis of colon cancer cells in the presence or absence of estrogen.