Neuropharmacological Disturbance and Neuroactive Steroids

Abstract

Like the adrenal glands, the testes, and the placenta, the brain produces steroids. In contrast to classic
steroidogenic tissues, steroid synthesis in the nervous system requires the coordinated expression and
regulation of genes encoding the steroidogenic enzymes in a number of cell types (neurons and glia) at
different locationsin the nervous system, often at a considerable distance from the cell bodies. Furthermore,
the production of these hormones could be developmentally controlled and connected to their roles in the
developing brain. The brain and neurological system produce a class of steroids known as neurosteroids,
which serve a broad range of purposes. Common steroid hormone nuclear receptors aren't involved in
mediating their effects; rather, they use ion-gated neurotransmitter receptors or direct/indirect regulation of
other neurotransmitter receptors. We review the enzymatic biochemistry, pharmacological characteristics,
and mechanisms of action of neurosteroids. Neurosteroids are examined in terms of their physiological
significance and prospective use in treating certain human disorders.