The intersection between menopause and depression: overview of research using animal models

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Endocrinology
• Reproductive Biology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Menopausal transition can trigger depression due to fluctuating estrogen levels.
• Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) effectiveness for menopausal depression is debated.
• Menopausal depression has a complex, multifactorial origin, complicating treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare animal models of menopause and their utility in studying depression.
• To evaluate the efficacy and mechanisms of conventional and novel ERTs for menopausal depression.
• To discuss factors influencing antidepressant responses to ERT in menopausal models.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical studies using ovariectomized rats, aged intact rats, and reprotoxic-treated females as menopausal models.
• Analysis of various menopausal stages, from surgical menopause to perimenopause.
• Discussion of organistic and therapeutic variables affecting ERT efficacy.

Main Results:

• Animal models demonstrate dynamic brain changes during menopausal transition and depression onset.
• Findings highlight the importance of timely intervention and tailored treatment based on reproductive tissue presence.
• New promising estrogens with potential antidepressant properties have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Animal models are crucial for understanding menopausal depression and ERT efficacy.
• Optimal treatment requires considering the menopausal stage and individual patient factors.
• Novel ERTs may offer effective alternatives for menopausal depression when traditional therapies fail.