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Semin Reprod Med 2009; 27(3): 207-217
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1216274
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Brain Aromatization: Classic Roles and New Perspectives

Charles E. Roselli1 , 2 , Mingyue Liu2 , Patricia D. Hurn1 , 2
  • 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
  • 2Department of Anesthesiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 April 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Aromatization of testosterone to estradiol by neural tissue has classically been associated with the regulation of sexual differentiation, gonadotropin secretion, and copulatory behavior. However, new data indicate that the capacity for aromatization is not restricted to the endocrine brain and demonstrate roles for locally formed estrogens in neurogenesis and in responses of brain tissue to injury. This article summaries our current understanding of the distribution and regulation of aromatase in the brain and describes the classic and novel roles it plays. A better understanding of brain aromatization could shed new light on its physiologic and pathologic functions and someday lead to new, centrally acting drug therapies.

KEYWORDS

Cytochrome P450 aromatase - CYP19 - LH - sexual behavior - sexual partner preference - brain ischemia

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Charles E RoselliPh.D. 

Department of Physiology and Pharmacology L334, Oregon Health & Science University

3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97201-3098

Email: rosellic@ohsu.edu

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