Neuroprotective action of acute estrogens: Animal models of brain ischemia and clinical implications

► A single high dose of estradiol (E2) given acutely after ischemia protects brain. ► Aging hippocampus remains responsive to acute E2 effects. ► Post-treatment is effective even after long-term hypoestrogenicity. ► Some non-feminizing estrogen analogs also promote cell survival. ► Acute E2 effects are mediated by membrane initiated E2 signaling.