title: Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis involvement in learning and memory and Alzheimer's disease: more than "just" estrogen.
abstract: Accumulating studies affirm the effects of age-related endocrine dysfunction on cognitive decline and increasing risk of neurodegenerative diseases. It is well known that estrogens can be protective for cognitive function, and more recently androgens and luteinizing hormone have also been shown to modulate learning and memory. Understanding the mechanisms underlying hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis-associated cognitive dysfunction is crucial for therapeutic advancement. Here, we emphasize that reproductive hormones are influential in maintaining neuronal health and enhancing signaling cascades that lead to cognitive impairment. We summarize and critically evaluate age-related changes in the endocrine system, their implications in the development of Alzheimer's disease, and the therapeutic potential of endocrine modulation in the prevention of age-related cognitive decline.
authors: Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH , USA.
authors: Jeffrey A
authors: JA
authors: Blair
authors: Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH , USA.
authors: Henry
authors: H
authors: McGee
authors: Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH , USA.
authors: Sabina
authors: S
authors: Bhatta
authors: University of Toledo School of Medicine , Toledo, OH , USA.
authors: Russell
authors: R
authors: Palm
authors: Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH , USA.
authors: Gemma
authors: G
authors: Casadesus
keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; estrogen; luteinizing hormone; memory; menopause; ovariectomy; testosterone