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Published on: January 24, 2020
Homocysteine, estrogen and cognitive decline.
1Women's Health Program, Department of Medicine, Central and Eastern Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Victoria, Australia.
Summary
High homocysteine levels are linked to cognitive decline in women. Estrogen influences homocysteine, but estrogen therapy doesn't prevent dementia, though it may help early in menopause.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cognitive decline in midlife women is not well understood.
- Homocysteine and estrogen may influence cognitive function.
- The menopause transition impacts homocysteine levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between cognitive change and homocysteine levels.
- To examine the impact of menopause and estrogen on homocysteine.
- To synthesize current knowledge on homocysteine and cognitive function in women.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies from 1993-2005.
- Focused on plasma homocysteine, cognitive function, and estrogen.
- Included endogenous hormone levels and exogenous estrogen use.
Main Results:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is consistently linked to cognitive decline.
- Estrogen therapy reduces plasma homocysteine, especially in those with high baseline levels.
- Vitamin supplementation normalizes homocysteine but doesn't improve cognition.
Conclusions:
- A link exists between homocysteine levels and cognitive decline.
- Menopause and estrogen therapy affect homocysteine levels.
- Further trials are needed to explore estrogen's role in preventing cognitive decline in early postmenopause.
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