Modulation of lactose synthesis and orexinergic-glucose pathway by sex steroid hormones.

ABSTRACT: Sex steroid hormones play a regulatory role in various metabolic processes, including glucose homeostasis via the orexinergic system and lactose synthesis. This review consolidates experimental findings on the mechanisms by which these hormones regulate these two pathways. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 15 controlled studies involving animals and humans that investigated the effects of sex steroid hormones on both pathways. Estradiol enhanced orexin neuron excitability and increased orexin-1 receptor expression in a cyclical, phase-dependent manner within the orexinergic-glucose axis, promoting glucose utilization during estrogen-dominant phases. Progesterone reduced this activity, which is consistent with the conservation of energy during the luteal p

SUBMITTER: Hakizimana JC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12620397 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature