List of neurosteroids

Neurosteroids are a class of steroids that rapidly alter neuronal excitability through interaction with neurotransmitter-gated ion channels, thus affecting the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). These compounds can be synthesized within the brain (de novo) or by peripheral tissues and then transported to the brain. Neurosteroids have a wide range of potential clinical applications from anesthesia to the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders.

Types of Neurosteroids

Neurosteroids can be categorized based on their effects and chemical structure. The main types include:

• Progesterone derivatives: Such as allopregnanolone and tetrahydroprogesterone, known for their potent modulatory effects on the GABA_A receptor.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and derivatives: DHEA and its sulfate ester (DHEAS) are involved in mood regulation and cognitive functions.
• Pregnenolone and derivatives: Including pregnenolone sulfate, known to modulate the NMDA receptor and other signaling pathways.
• Testosterone derivatives: Such as 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can be further metabolized to neuroactive steroids affecting GABA_A receptor activity.

Biosynthesis and Metabolism

Neurosteroids are synthesized from cholesterol through a series of enzymatic reactions. The initial step involves the transport of cholesterol into mitochondria, followed by its conversion to pregnenolone, the precursor of all steroids. Pregnenolone can then be converted into various neurosteroids depending on the enzymes present in specific tissues.

Functions

Neurosteroids play a crucial role in the modulation of neurotransmitter systems, including GABA, NMDA, and sigma receptors. They are involved in the regulation of mood, stress response, learning, memory, and neuroprotection. Neurosteroids can influence the CNS by altering gene expression, neuronal excitability, and synaptic plasticity.

Clinical Significance

Due to their potent effects on the CNS, neurosteroids are being studied for the treatment of several conditions, including:

• Anxiety disorders
• Major depressive disorder
• Epilepsy
• Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease
• Substance abuse

List of Neurosteroids

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.

• Allopregnanolone
• Tetrahydroprogesterone
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
• DHEA sulfate (DHEAS)
• Pregnenolone
• Pregnenolone sulfate
• 5α-Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

See Also

• Steroidogenesis
• GABA_A receptor
• NMDA receptor