http://www.intechopen.com/books/towa...nson-s-disease

free download

I read chapter 10 first on GDNF and PD. A main point is the protective role of estradiol (one reason PD is more common in men than in women).

"The estrogen 17β-estradiol plays a determinant protective role through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic actions. Moreover, 17β- estradiol is capable of inducing the expression of neurotrophic factors, namely GDNF, which can have a determinant contribution to the aforementioned protective effects of 17β- estradiol."

My first symptom (tremor) coincided with menopause. I did my research and promptly started on bioidentical hormones at optimal doses, including estradiol. I noticed that much of the research on the protective effect of estrogen on PD stopped when the WHI study came out (which showed deleterious effects of synthetic estrogens and progestins). I mentioned to my MDS that I was finding good (old) research on estradiol and PD, and she said, no, no, no, exercise, exercise, exercise. I do exercise but I have found that estradiol cream has helped with my PD.

I think it is important to explore all avenues to combat this hydra-headed disease. I am glad that I did my research and followed through, despite the poo-pooing of my MDS.

Wonder what would happen if a guy with PD took the estradiol cream? Anyone done this?

I would definitely explore further before trying it; even something as innocuous as lavender can trigger breast formation in young boys. Yes, the essential oil of several common plants are estrogenic, so using it straight...?

I did run across two good articles that may be helpful.


Renin angiotensin system and gender differences in dopaminergic degeneration.

Note the last sentence in the abstract: manipulation of brain RAS may be an efficient approach for neuroprotective treatment of PD in men, without the feminizing effects of estrogen.


You might want to PM Rick on this last one. I believe he is still taking an ACE inhibitor (or angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor) and has noticed some real improvements.

Estrogen actions in the brain and the basis for differential action in men and women: a case for sex-specific medicines.

HTH

-Laura