Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2004; 112 - H4
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-832866

The gynecologist as an age-preventing neuropsychiatrist?

JC Huber 1
  • 1Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Vienna, Austria

There are many interactions between neuroendocrinology and sexual steroids. 17-betaestradiol is a strong enhancer of hexokinase activity, an important enzyme for the nutrition of neurons in other brain cells. The C-21 steroid progesterone has a strong agonistic effect on the GABA-receptor and has the same effect as barbiturate and diazepam's. Also the myelin formation is stimulated by progesterone – during the pregnancy and also in the adult life. Discussion is also needed about the topic hormone replacement therapy and Alzheimer diseases, a new interpretation of the WHI results will be presented.