Aromatase and its inhibition in behaviour, obsessive compulsive disorder and parkinsonism

Steroids. 2011 Jul;76(8):816-9. doi: 10.1016/j.steroids.2011.02.031. Epub 2011 Apr 6.

Abstract

Oestrogens regulate normal behaviour and have been implicated in modulating pathological behaviour such as obsessive compulsive disorder and neurological disorder such as Parkinsonism. Therefore, by regulating the expression of the oestrogen-synthesising enzyme, aromatase, we may identify what behaviour is regulated by oestrogen. Inhibition of aromatase either genetically or pharmacologically has been reported to induce sexual behaviour impairment, compulsive behaviour and susceptibility to neurodegeneration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aromatase / genetics
  • Aromatase / metabolism*
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Estrogens / biosynthesis*
  • Estrogens / genetics
  • Estrogens / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Learning / drug effects
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / chemically induced*
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / enzymology
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / enzymology
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal / drug effects

Substances

  • Aromatase Inhibitors
  • Estrogens
  • Aromatase