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A groundbreaking review published in Brain Medicine by leading neuroendocrinologist Professor Hyman M. Schipper from McGill University’s Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery sheds new light on the intricate influence of reproductive hormones on neurological health and disease. This comprehensive review, part of a special Festschrift issue honoring Dr. Seymour Reichlin’s centennial, explores the multifaceted ways in which sex hormones impact a broad spectrum of neurological conditions.
The Role of Sex Hormones in Neurological Disorders
The review examines how reproductive hormones interact with neurological function through various mechanisms, including direct effects on nerve cells, epigenetic modifications, and the brain’s glymphatic system—a recently discovered waste clearance pathway. Professor Schipper’s work details the impact of sex hormones on numerous neurological disorders, such as:
- Vascular disorders like migraine, which affects up to 60% of female sufferers during menstruation, and stroke
- Movement disorders including Parkinson’s disease, Wilson’s disease, and chorea
- Epilepsy, particularly its relationship with hormonal cycles
- Multiple sclerosis, which presents distinct patterns during pregnancy
- Alzheimer’s disease, with its complex hormonal correlations
- Sleep disorders, which exhibit significant gender-based differences
- Brain tumors, notably hormone-sensitive meningiomas
- Neuromuscular conditions like myasthenia gravis
- Other neurological disorders, including intracranial hypertension and porphyria
Key Findings and Implications
“Our understanding of how reproductive hormones impact neurological conditions has expanded dramatically,” states Professor Schipper. “These hormones influence not only reproductive functions but also how the nervous system develops, functions, and responds to disease and injury.”
Among the critical findings, the review notes:
- Cytochrome P450 system activation: Many anti-epileptic and neurological drugs induce this liver enzyme system, accelerating sex steroid breakdown and potentially leading to oral contraceptive failure.
- Therapeutic potential of neurosteroids: These brain-produced hormone derivatives could revolutionize neurological treatment.
- Hormonal fluctuations and disease manifestation: Menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause significantly affect symptoms and treatment responses.
- Sex-specific treatment approaches: Many neurological conditions may require gender-specific strategies for optimal care.
The research prompts key questions for future exploration:
- How do sex hormones interact with the brain’s glymphatic system?
- Could targeting neurosteroid pathways open new therapeutic avenues?
- How might hormone-based treatments be optimized for personalized care?
These insights carry significant implications for clinical practice, emphasizing that neurologists should consistently consider hormonal factors when diagnosing and treating patients.
Honoring a Legacy: Dr. Seymour Reichlin’s Centennial
This review is featured in a Festschrift dedicated to the esteemed Dr. Seymour Reichlin, who celebrated his 100th birthday last year. A pioneering figure in neuroendocrinology, Dr. Reichlin’s research revolutionized the understanding of endocrine-immune interactions and mentored generations of scientists, including Professor Schipper.
“Dr. Reichlin’s mentorship during my fellowship at Tufts continues to shape my career,” reflects Professor Schipper. “His visionary work on neuroendocrine interactions paved the way for modern breakthroughs in neurological research.”
This tribute highlights how Dr. Reichlin’s insights continue to inspire advancements in the field, demonstrating the dynamic interplay of genetics and environmental influences on neurological health.
More Information: Sex hormones and diseases of the nervous system, Brain Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.61373/bm025w.0008
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals experiencing neurological or hormonal health concerns should consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized assessment and treatment.
