Immunohistochemical evidence that tumors elicit the synthesis of estrogen receptors in the submandibular gland of female rats.

We have demonstrated the presence of estrogen receptor mRNA and the mature protein in the cytoplasm and nucleus, respectively, of a 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzathracene-induced submandibular gland tumor in female rats. We have previously shown that progesterone receptors are also present in human salivary gland tumors. These results suggest that endocrine therapy may be effective in treatment of submandibular gland tumors.