Cell-based assay for the determination of estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activities

Methods are described for assessing the estrogenic or anti-estrogenic potential of test substances using cultured (human endometrial) Ishikawa cells. This cell line possesses an estrogen-inducible alkaline phosphatase, and estrogenic activity is indicated by assessing by the rate of p-nitrophenol generated from p-nitrophenylphosphate, subsequent to treatment with test compounds. Anti-estrogenic activity is indicated by a decrease in phosphatase activity when the cells are treated with test compounds in the presence of estrogen.