The Power of Progesterone beyond Reproduction
By: Cordelia de la Fuente
Hormones take the center stage of the human experience, constantly shaping our lives behind the scenes. From our emotional responses to longevity, the power that these chemicals hold is widely underestimated. In terms of sexual biology, the levels of hormones like progesterone and estrogen are higher in females while those of testosterone are higher in males. However, as we age, the functionality of these hormones tends to dip, altering our chemistry and oftentimes bringing side effects as a result. As science and medicine evolve, researchers are looking to pinpoint and explain the root causes of these declines and how to target them to improve human function.
While progesterone is widely studied for its role in reproductive health, research led by Dr. Meharvan Singh explores its influence on neurodegeneration. His team's paper, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Related Mechanisms That Mediate and Influence Progesterone-Induced Neuroprotection, examine how progesterone affects brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its role in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. Their findings suggest that progesterone enhances BDNF, reducing the risk of neurodegeneration (Meharvan, 2024). In fact, the paper states how when cells are treated with a small amount of progesterone for a full day, they can produce up to about 75% more BDNF, an essential component for brain health, helping neurons grow and stay strong. However, during menopause, when women experience a sharp decline in progesterone levels, there is an increased vulnerability to developing neurodegenerative diseases. In contrast, men, who have overall lower baseline levels of progesterone, do not experience this drastic decline, making them less susceptible to progesterone-related neurodegeneration. The research showcases the importance of progesterone beyond reproductive health and highlights how there are sex-based differences in contracting neurological disease.
Another key area where progesterone influences biological differences between sexes is sleep regulation. A New York Times article, Do Women Need More Sleep Than Men?, explores how progesterone affects sleep-wake cycles in males and females. Clinical psychologist Shelby Harris and her research team in New York City are working to further understand how progesterone influences sleep patterns and sleep disorders in both sexes. Her research suggests that progesterone promotes better sleep quality, but fluctuations in its levels are tied to sleep disorders (Doe, 2025). For example, women often experience a drop in progesterone just before menstruation, which is linked to poorer sleep quality. This work highlights the hormone’s broader role in maintaining overall health and well-being beyond reproduction, and how it is essential for other aspects of human wellbeing.
Now more than ever, scientists, doctors, and researchers are exploring the roles of hormones like progesterone beyond reproduction. Taking a holistic approach to hormone research can deepen our understanding of how these chemicals differently influence males and females, advancing personalized medicine. This knowledge is crucial for developing pharmaceutical and therapeutic treatments for major health conditions of the 21st century. From neurodegenerative diseases to sleep apnea, addressing the root causes of these conditions is key to creating more effective, non-invasive therapies. The groundbreaking research of Shelby Harris and Dr. Meharvan Singh is paving the way for a deeper understanding of hormonal regulation and its impact on overall health.
Works Cited:
Doe, John. "Understanding Sleep Differences Between Genders." The New York Times, 18 Feb. 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/well/sleep-needs-for-women-versus-men.html.
Singh M, Krishnamoorthy VR, Kim S, Khurana S and LaPorte HM (2024) Brain- derived neurotrophic factor and related mechanisms that mediate and influence progesterone-induced neuroprotection. Front. Endocrinol. 15:1286066. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1286066
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