The cerebellum as a target for estrogen action

This review focuses on the effects of estrogens upon the cerebellum, a brain region long ignored as a site of estrogen action. Highlighted are the diverse effects of estradiol within the cerebellum, emphasizing the importance of estradiol signaling in cerebellar development, modulation of synaptic neurotransmission in the adult, and the potential influence of estrogens on various health and disease states. We also provide new data, consistent with previous studies, in which locally synthesized estradiol modulates cerebellar glutamatergic neurotransmission, providing one underlying mechanism by which the actions of estradiol can affect this brain region.

► Estrogen action in the cerebellum has been observed for years, but often ignored.
► Estradiol affects cerebellar development.
► Estradiol promotes glutamate neurotransmission within the cerebellum.
► Cerebellar estradiol is impacts a variety of health issues.