Estrogen action in mood and neurodegenerative disorders: estrogenic compounds with selective properties-the next generation of therapeutics.
In this review, estrogenic effects in depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative disorders are summarized. Moreover, preclinical findings from in vitro and animal models are discussed. There is a correlation between decreased estrogen levels (e.g., premenstrually, during the postpartum period, and perimenopausally) and increased anxiety and depressive symptoms. Several studies show beneficial effects of estrogen treatment in women with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Recent data indicate that the estrogen receptor (ER) beta appears to be a major mediator of estrogenic effects in depression and anxiety. Additionally, both preclinical and clinical findings suggest that activation of estrogen receptors have an important role in neuroprotective and neurodegenerative processes in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS).
Osterlund
Marie K
MK
Karo Bio AB, Novum, S-141 57 Huddinge, Sweden.
Witt
Michael-Robin
MR
Gustafsson
Jan-Ake
JA
D000818:Animals; D020847:Estrogen Receptor Modulators / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D047629:Estrogen Receptor beta / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D004967:Estrogens / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D019636:Neurodegenerative Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use
D020847:Estrogen Receptor Modulators; D047629:Estrogen Receptor beta; D004967:Estrogens; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents