Estrogenic Regulation of Glia and Neuroinflammation
This chapter on estrogenic regulation of glia and neuroinflammation reviews the role of glial cells in the modulation of synaptic function under physiological conditions and in the regulation of the neuroinflammatory response under pathological conditions. The anti-inflammatory actions of estradiol on astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia and the implication of these actions for the neuroprotective and tissue repair effects of the hormone are also discussed. Finally, the therapeutic potential of synthetic and natural estrogenic compounds for the control of neuroinflammation is examined. Because reducing neuroinflammation prevents the progressive loss of neural structure and function that leads to functional and mental impairments, regulation of glial cell activation via estradiol is a promising therapeutic approach.