Nk3R blockade has sex-divergent effects on memory in mice

Abstract

Highlights Nk3R antagonism reduces recognition memory consolidation in male mice and increases it in proestrus females. Androgen receptor expression is higher in the CA1 compared to DG, CA3, and the mPFC. Estrogen repcetor α expression is higher in males than in females in the DH and mPFC. Estrogen receptor β expression is greater in females than in males in the DG, CA1, and CG. Over 60% of Nk3R in the DH and mPFC is heterodimerized with membrane estrogen receptor and androgen receptor. Nk3R–GPAR is more abundant in males than in proestrus females, whereas Nk3R–GPER is greater in proestrus females compared to males.

Keywords

• Neurokinin-3 receptor
• Osanetant
• Sex differences
• Heterodimerization
• Estradiol
• Testosterone