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Sex hormones and cognition in aging
Caroline Gurvich1, Jessica Le1, Natalie Thomas1
1Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Monash University Central Clinical School and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
Vitamins and Hormones
|March 12, 2021
Summary
Sex hormones influence brain function and cognition throughout life. Changes in sex hormones, particularly during menopause, may impact cognitive aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Aging Research
Background:
- Sex hormones from the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are neurosteroids affecting brain development and function.
- Cognitive changes, both subjective and objective, are common during aging, particularly in women during menopause.
- Sex differences in neurodegenerative diseases suggest a role for sex hormones in cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the relationship between sex hormones and cognition in healthy aging.
- To examine the impact of the menopause transition on cognitive function.
- To review the links between sex hormones and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on sex hormones, cognition, aging, menopause, and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding the effects of sex hormones on cognitive function across the lifespan.
- Overview of current findings on hormone therapy and its effects on cognition.
Main Results:
- Sex hormones play a significant role in cognitive function throughout life.
- Menopause involves hormonal fluctuations that are associated with cognitive complaints.
- Sex hormones are implicated in the pathophysiology of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Conclusions:
- Sex hormones are critical modulators of brain function and cognition.
- Understanding the role of sex hormones in aging and neurodegeneration is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
- Further research is needed to clarify the effects of hormone therapy on cognition.
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