Hypothalamus und Hitzewallungen

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS, hot flashes) occur particularly and most intensively in the perimenopause and postmenopause of women and are considered the leading symptom of the climacteric phase. They have a substantial influence on the quality of life of many women in this period of life. Research results from the last 20 years have revolutionized the understanding of the processes in the hypothalamus in the generation of menopausal VMS. A complex neuronal system in the field of the hypothalamus is responsible for the emergence of the hot flashes that are typical for the menopause. These neurons that express kisspeptin, neurokinin B and also the opioid dynorphin, are known as KNDy neurons. Neurokinin B in particular plays a special role in this. The knowledge of the mechanisms in the region of the KNDy neurons has led to the development of new nonhormonal treatment approaches for vasomotor complaints in the form of neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) and NK1R antagonists. These have greatly extended the spectrum of treatment options for women in the climacteric phase.