University of São Paulo researchers develop targeted menopause hormone therapy

Researchers at the University of São Paulo (USP) have developed a targeted approach to hormone replacement therapy for menopause that may reduce risks associated with conventional treatments. Published in the journal Comprehensive Physiology, the study tested a strategy that activates only the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) rather than replacing estrogen entirely.

By specifically targeting the ERβ receptor, which regulates metabolism, the researchers were able to achieve metabolic benefits without stimulating reproductive tissues such as the uterus or breasts. This is particularly significant for individuals with a genetic predisposition to hormone-sensitive tumors.

In studies conducted on rats simulating menopause, the experimental drug helped restore fasting glucose levels, normalize lipid profiles, and reduce fat cell size. The researchers noted that this method addresses metabolic issues caused by estrogen decline—such as visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular risks—without affecting sensitive areas of the body.