The brain has its own estrogen factory, and aromatase is the enzyme that keeps it running.
Aromatase (CYP19A1) converts androgens, such as testosterone, into estrogens and is expressed in brain cells including neurons and astrocytes.
Why is this important? Locally produced estrogen supports neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity, and helps regulate neuroinflammation.
When aromatase activity declines with aging, menopause, or metabolic stress, local estrogen production falls. This may contribute to increased neuroinflammation, reduced neuronal resilience, and a greater risk of neurodegenerative disease.
Many questions remain: How is aromatase regulated in different brain cell types, and could targeting brain aromatase offer new neuroprotective therapies?
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