Rapid change of neuropeptide Y levels and gene-expression in the brain of ovariectomized mice after administration of 17 beta-estradiol

• Estrogen alters excitability and changes synaptic morphology in the rat hippocampal formation. We have compared, by means of radioimmunoassay and in situ hybridization, the effects of short-term treatment with 17 beta-estradiol on neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the brain of ovariectomized mice. A highly significant reduction in concentrations of NPY-like immunoreactivity (LI) was observed in the hippocampal formation, some cortical areas and the caudate nucleus 1 h after administration of 17 beta-estradiol as compared to the control group. In contrast, NPY transcript levels increased in the hippocampal formation (dentate gyrus) and the caudate nucleus, possibly representing a compensatory increase of NPY synthesis following increased estradiol-induced NPY release. These data suggest that 17 beta-estradiol, via membrane-related mechanisms, increases NPY release and synthesis in forebrain areas involved in cognition, mood and motor functions.

Keyword

Estrogen

In situ hybridization

Limbic system

Neuropeptide

Radioimmunoassay

MEDICINE

MEDICIN

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art (subject category)