Events in cerebral vessel have long been considered as a leading cause of disability in postmenopausal women with the physiological changes in expression and secretion of sex hormones. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) emerged as a supplementary therapeutic strategy for them with the potential risk of cerebrovascular accidents. Epidemiological and genetic data showed that an interrelationship exists between hormone replacement and cerebrovascular disorders. Many animal experiments and clinical observations produced different results: these varied from positive to negative. Furthermore, recent studies could not identify the particular hormone, estrogen or progesterone that is more beneficial than the other. Here we summarize the two hormones’ effects on cerebrovascular diseases; associated epidemiological and genetic evidences; and the real status of the benefits and risks of HRT as well. We further hypothesize that whatever effects of HRT on brain vessel, hormone receptor expression, density, sensitivity and function may undergo alteration to varying extents, i.e. receptor plasticity gives rise to the receptor remodeling in postmenopausal older women, this may terminally produce the unwelcome effects
Is data on this page outdated, violates copyrights or anything else? Report the problem now and we will take corresponding actions after reviewing your request.