Scientists also are finding evidence that estrogen may regulate other proteins that have been directly linked to AD as well as molecules specifically tied to memory. Researchers hope to develop ways to cause selected benefits of estrogen in the brain. In addition to mental function, estrogen also may affect mood and brain blood flow. Once the hormone's mechanisms are better understood, scientists plan to develop estrogen-like drugs that target specific brain actions. Estrogen's role in memory may be due to its affect on the tiny knobs called spines that protrude from a neuron's message receiving ends, known as dendrites.
Spines are where important connections between neurons are made.
The cells were taken from brain areas responsible for memory processes. Images by Diane Murphy, PhD, National Institutes of Health Society members may submit relevant current research references for consideration to list with this article. Please include a full copy of the paper. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without permission of the Society for Neuroscience.