The Effect of Estrogen, Progesterone, and Its Combination on The Expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Medula Spinalis in Regeneration Process of Peripheral Nerve

Abstract

Background: The presence of modulation factors in the regeneration process of peripheral nerve cells
influenced by estrogen and progesterone. Peripheral nerve injury is a fairly common case of trauma. Brainderived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is the most active group of neurotrophins in stimulating neurogenesis.
Objectives: To proves the effect of estrogen and progesterone on the expression of BDNF on the spinal cord
in peripheral nerve regeneration process. Methods: Laboratory experimental study with the completely
randomized design. Total transitory nerve ischiadicus was performed on four groups of rats. Each group
received hormone therapy according to the group. Hormone therapy is administered every 3 days for
28 days, and on the 29th day is termination, spinal cord sampling, and followed by BDNF expression
examination by Immunohistochemistry method. Results: In the control group, BDNF expression of spinal
cord neuron cells was 93.0±14.0. In the treatment group, BDNF expression was obtained after estrogen
therapy was 77.25±19.19, progesterone was 84.5±20.61, and in a combination of estrogen and progesterone
was 77.75±16.54. After statistical tests, no significant differences were found between the treatment groups
(p = 0.316). Conclusion: The administration of estrogen, progesterone, or a combination of both did not
significantly increase BDNF expression when compared to the control group.