Dynamic changes in binding interaction networks of sex steroids establish their non-classical effects.

Non-classical signaling in the intracellular second messenger system plays a pivotal role in the cytoprotective effect of estradiol. Estrogen receptor is a common target of sex steroids and important in mediating estradiol-induced neuroprotection. Whereas the mechanism of genomic effects of sex steroids is fairly understood, their non-classical effects have not been elucidated completely. We use real time molecular dynamics calculations to uncover the interaction network of estradiol and activator estren. Besides steroid interactions, we also investigate the co-activation of the receptor. We show how steroid binding to the alternative binding site of the non-classical action is facilitated by the presence of a steroid in the classical binding site and the absence of the co-activator peptide. Uncovering such dynamic mechanisms behind steroid action will help the structure-based design of new drugs with non-classical responses and cytoprotective potential.