Progesterone and estrogens in rat brain: modulation of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor activity.

Our data indicate that estrogens and progesterone can regulate the number of GABA receptors (as detected by [3H]muscimol binding assay) in rat brain. Both hormones act in selected areas. The extent of the effect (up to 160% increase) and the number of areas responsive suggest that sex hormones may play a very important role in the regulation of the functions of GABAergic transmission in the central nervous system.