Derivatization-free LC-MS/MS method for estrogen quantification in mouse brain highlights a local metabolic regulation after oral versus subcutaneous administration.

17β-Estradiol (17β-E) is a steroid with pleiotropic actions. In addition to being a sexual hormone, it is also produced in the brain where it modulates the reproductive axis. It has been shown that 17β-E also acts on synaptic plasticity and plays a role in neurological pathways and in neurodegenerative diseases.