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B S McEwen1, S E Alves, K Bulloch
1Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10021, USA.
Psychopharmacology Bulletin
|November 6, 1998
Summary
Ovarian steroids significantly impact brain functions beyond reproduction, affecting cognition, motor activity, and even neurodegenerative diseases. This review details their neurochemical and structural brain effects, offering insights into mood and behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Neurobiology
- Brain Science
Background:
- Ovarian steroids influence numerous nonreproductive brain functions.
- These hormones affect cognitive processes, motor activity, and pain perception.
- Ovarian steroids are implicated in neurological conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the neurochemical and structural effects of ovarian steroids on animal brains.
- To provide a foundation for understanding hormone impacts on mood, behavior, and cognition.
- To explore the role of ovarian hormones in various physiological and pathological brain states.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on ovarian hormone effects in animal models.
- Analysis of neurochemical alterations induced by ovarian steroids.
- Examination of structural brain changes associated with ovarian steroid action.
Main Results:
- Ovarian steroids exert diverse neurochemical and structural effects on the brain.
- Evidence shows significant influence on cognitive function and motor activity.
- Hormonal effects extend to seizure susceptibility and pain sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Ovarian steroids play a crucial role in modulating brain function and behavior.
- Understanding these effects is key to addressing mood disorders and cognitive changes.
- Further research can elucidate therapeutic strategies for hormone-related neurological conditions.