Ovarian hormones, mood and neurotransmitters

Over recent years research into steroid-CNS interactions has moved beyond reproductive functions. Effects of ovarian hormones on cognitive functions and mood are emerging and modulation of neurotransmitter systems involved in the pathogenesis of affective disorders, particularly the serotonergic and dopamine systems, have been reported. However, most clinical and basic science research has focused on effects of steroid exposure rather than those of steroid exposure followed by withdrawal which is more relevant to the aetiology of postnatal, premenstrual and menopausal affective disorders. However, promising target sites for such experiments have been identified and future research in this area is likely to see interesting times ahead