SERMs bind to estrogen receptors, which are proteins found in various tissues throughout the body. Depending on the tissue type, SERMs can either block or activate the receptor. For instance, in breast tissue, SERMs like Tamoxifen act as antagonists, blocking estrogen from binding and thereby inhibiting the growth of estrogen receptor-positive cancers. Conversely, in bone and liver tissues, they may act as agonists, promoting beneficial effects like bone density maintenance.