Document Type
Journal Article
Publisher
Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Faculty
Faculty of Computing, Health and Science
School
School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Science
RAS ID
4444
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by gradual cognitive decline, impairments in speech and language, and dysfunction in the sensorimotor systems, culminating in complete reliance on nursing care. Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance in the pro-oxidant/antioxidant mechanisms in the body, has been implicated in AD pathogenesis, as in many other age-associated diseases such as atherosclerosis, Parkinson disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Although the hormones estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone are best known for their roles in reproduction, many studies show these hormones have other roles, including neuroprotection. Changes in the levels of these hormones that occur in reproductive senescence are hypothesized to increase risk of AD, as a result of reduced protection against oxidative insults. The Aβ peptide, overproduction of which is thought to be a key pathogenic event in the development of AD, is neurotoxic, most likely due to its ability to promote oxidative stress. The reproductive hormones are known to influence Aβ metabolism, and this review discusses the beneficial and detrimental effects these hormones have on Aβ production and oxidative stress, and their relevance in potential AD therapies.
DOI
10.1089/ars.2006.8.2047
Access Rights
free_to_read
Comments
This is an Author's Accepted Manuscript of: Barron, A. , Fuller, S., Verdile, G. , & Martins, R. N. (2006). Reproductive Hormones Modulate Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 8(11-12), 2047-2059. Available here This is a copy of an article published in Antioxidants & Redox Signaling © 2006 [copyright Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.]; Antioxidants & Redox Signaling is available online at: http://www.liebertonline.com.