Q and A: about health and research

The ability to transition between sleep and wakefulness is a fundamental biological process. Two key players in this delicate balance are adenosine and orexin (also known as hypocretin) . These neurochemical systems work in opposition to regulate sleep pressure and arousal, primarily through their interaction within the hypothalamus—a brain region central to maintaining circadian rhythms and energy homeostasis. Adenosine: The Sleep-Promoting Molecule Function Adenosine is an endogenous compound that gradually builds up in the brain during prolonged periods of wakefulness. As levels increase, it promotes the onset of sleep by inhibiting arousal-promoting systems. Mechanism of Action Adenosine acts through A1 receptors , especially those located on orexin neurons in the lateral hypothalamus . When adenosine binds to these receptors, it suppresses the firing of orexin neurons, which are critical for maintaining wakefulness. Effect This suppression leads to a decrease in arousal ...

  Estrogen, a critical hormone in female physiology, plays a far-reaching role in health—regulating reproductive functions, bone density, mood, lipid metabolism, and more. However, what is often overlooked is how fluctuations in estrogen levels—whether due to aging, disease, or external hormonal influences—can significantly alter how a woman responds to medications. Understanding the interaction between estrogen and drug metabolism is crucial, particularly in women going through menopause or taking medications that either affect or are affected by estrogen levels. This article explores how estrogen levels impact drug efficacy, side effects, and safety—especially in postmenopausal women. The Estrogen Spectrum: Hypo vs. Hyper Both low (hypoestrogenism) and high (hyperestrogenism) levels are associated with a range of chronic and acute health conditions. Low estrogen , common during and after menopause, contributes to tissue degeneration (e.g., bone, muscle, and neural tissue...