This Is Your Brain On Estrogen

Researchers have recently traced hormonal effects on metabolism to specific areas of the brain. This new knowledge could lead to the development of highly selective hormone replacement therapies that could be used to combat obesity in women, since it is known that the sex hormone estrogen plays an important role in women gaining weight as they become older. The therapies could also be used to combat infertility in women and would not have the risks for heart disease and breast cancer. When women approach menopause, their estrogen levels fall and they become more susceptible to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Most gain weight in fat and have decreased energy expenditure. The recent findings suggest that drugs could be developed to specifically target estrogen receptors in the brain. These drugs could offer a useful alternative to hormone replacement therapies that hit receptors throughout the body. The researchers say they would like to continue to isolate other estrogen-related effects and symptoms, for instance, on hot flashes and cognition.

Link to the article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111004123600.htm