Long-term estradiol-17β administration reduces population of neurons in the sympathetic chain ganglia supplying the ovary in adult gilts

► Elevated E2 levels on number and distribution of SChG ovarian neurons in pig were examined. ► Numbers of DβH-, NPY-, SOM-, GAL- and ERs-positive perikarya were also estimated. ► E2 treatment decrease the noradrenergic and ERs expressing SChG ovarian neurons. ► Hyperestrogenism may regulate gonadal functions by affecting the ovary neurons. ► Results support the importance of estrogens as modulators of neuronal plasticity.