Abstract

Sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone significantly influence brain structure, function, and behavior, with cyclical fluctuations shaping cognition, mood, and neuroplasticity. This study explores the neurobiological effects of oral contraceptive induced hormonal stabilization, focusing on the hippocampus, a region central to memory and rich in hormone receptors. Combining neuroendocrinology, behavioral neuroscience, and computational modeling, we examine how short-term and chronic exposure to synthetic hormones (ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel) impacts brain function in female rodents and humans. Morris Water Maze data show that contraceptive treated mice have impaired spatial learning and memory, suggesting hippocampal disruption. To assess long-term effects, we developed an ODE based computational model simulating hormonal impacts on BDNF, synaptic plasticity, and memory. The model predicts progressive declines in BDNF, synaptic strength, and cognition with prolonged exposure. These findings indicate that oral contraceptives suppress hormonal rhythms and gradually alter neuroendocrine and cognitive function, underscoring the need to evaluate their long-term neurological impact.

Advisor

Stavnezer, Amy Jo

Department

Biology; Computer Science; Mathematics; Neuroscience; Psychology; Statistical and Data Sciences

Disciplines

Behavioral Neurobiology | Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms | Biostatistics | Integrative Biology | Ordinary Differential Equations and Applied Dynamics

Keywords

oral contraceptives, hippocampus, memory, estrogen, progesterone, BDNF, computational modeling, neuroplasticity, sex hormones, spatial learning

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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Available for download on Monday, July 15, 2030

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© Copyright 2025 Rishika Daruwala