What is the Origin of Hormone Impact on Cognition?

This field of study is rooted in psychoneuroendocrinology, focusing on the intricate crosstalk between the hormonal and central nervous systems. The recognition of this impact has grown significantly with the understanding of neurosteroid receptors in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.

What is the Mechanism of Hormone Impact on Cognition?

Hormones like estradiol and testosterone enhance cerebral blood flow and stimulate the synthesis of neurotrophic factors, such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which promotes synaptogenesis and neuronal survival. Conversely, imbalances, such as high cortisol from chronic stress or hypothyroidism, can impair mitochondrial function in the brain, leading to energy deficits that manifest as "brain fog" and slowed processing.

Hormone Impact on Cognition

Meaning

The specific, measurable effects that fluctuations or deficiencies in circulating endocrine messengers, particularly sex steroids and thyroid hormones, exert on executive function, memory, attention, and overall mental clarity. This clinical relationship underscores the necessity of endocrine balance for maintaining peak neurological performance and mitigating the cognitive decline associated with hormonal transitions such as andropause or menopause. The brain’s sensitivity to these chemical signals is exceptionally high.