Estrogen replacement therapy reverses spatial memory loss and pyramidal cell neurodegeneration in the prefrontal cortex of lead-exposed ovariectomized Wistar rats.

Background: Although menopause is a component of chronological aging, it may be induced by exposure to heavy metals like lead. Interestingly, lead exposure, just like the postmenopausal state, has been associated with spatial memory loss and neurodegeneration; however, the impact of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on menopause and lead-induced spatial memory loss and neurodegeneration is yet to be reported.

Aim: The present study investigated the effect and associated mechanism of HRT on ovariectomized-driven menopausal state and lead exposure-induced spatial memory loss and neurodegeneration.