Volume 56 (2006) Issue: 2006 No#2-3

The effects of estrogen on the morphology of the pyramidal neurons of the parietal cortex of female rats

Author(s): Drekić D, Lozanče Olivera, Milovanović N, Kerkez M, Stefanović D, Zorić Z

Keywords:estrogen, estradiol, rats, pyramidal neurons

In this study the effects of a neonatally (3rd day of life) administered single dose (1 mg) of estradiol dipropionate (E2) on the parietal cortex of juvenile (16 days of life) female rats were investigated. The morphology, the volume of the soma and the thickness of the apical dendrite were studied in Golgi impregnated pyramidal neurons from both the external and internal pyramidal layers. In the treated female rats the volume of the soma and the thickness of the apical dendrite of pyramidal neurons was increased, surpassing the values in the corresponding controls. These findings indicated significant and prolonged effects of a single dose of estrogen, administered in the neonatal period, on the parietal neocortical pyramidal neurons of female rats.