AR, apoE, and cognitive function

Horm Behav. 2008 May;53(5):706-15. doi: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2008.02.012. Epub 2008 Feb 26.

Abstract

Reduced androgen levels in aged men and women might be risk factors for age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Ongoing clinical trials are designed to evaluate the potential benefit of estrogen in women and of testosterone in men. In this review, we discuss the potential beneficial effects of androgens and androgen receptors (ARs) in males and females. In addition, we discuss the hypothesis that AR interacts with apolipoprotein (apoE)4, encoded by epsilon4 and a risk factor for age-related cognitive decline and AD, and the potential consequences of this interaction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging / physiology
  • Alzheimer Disease / genetics
  • Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology
  • Androgens / pharmacology
  • Androgens / physiology*
  • Androgens / therapeutic use
  • Apolipoproteins E / physiology*
  • Cognition / drug effects
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Cognition Disorders / genetics
  • Cognition Disorders / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Receptors, Androgen / physiology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Testosterone / metabolism

Substances

  • Androgens
  • Apolipoproteins E
  • Receptors, Androgen
  • Testosterone