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Combining Behavioral Endocrinology and Experimental Economics: Testosterone and Social Decision Making

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Sex steroids and cognitive function.

¹Department of Psychology, Hunter College of CUNY, New York, NY 10065, USA. vluine@hunter.cuny.edu

Journal of Neuroendocrinology

|June 3, 2008

Summary

Gonadal hormones like oestradiol may influence cognition, but effects are inconsistent. Research remains vital due to longer lifespans and oestrogen deprivation in women.

Area of Science:

Neuroendocrinology
Cognitive Neuroscience
Reproductive Endocrinology

Background:

Gonadal hormones, particularly oestradiol, are implicated in modulating cognitive functions.
Observed cognitive effects of hormones are often small and vary across studies.
Growing populations of women experiencing oestrogen deprivation necessitate continued research.

Purpose of the Study:

To review significant advancements in understanding hormonal influences on cognition.
To offer insights from recent research for future investigations.
To highlight the importance of studying oestradiol and cognition.

Main Methods:

Literature review of animal and human studies.
Analysis of recent research findings on hormonal effects on cognition.

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Synthesis of historical developments and current trends.

Main Results:

Hormonal influences on cognition are complex and not always pronounced.
Inconsistencies in findings across studies suggest modulating factors.
Recent studies offer potential avenues for future research directions.

Conclusions:

Oestradiol's role in cognition requires further elucidation.
Future research should address the variability in observed effects.
Understanding hormonal impacts on cognition is crucial for aging populations, especially women.