Neurobiology Of Steroids

Steroid hormones are unique compounds in that they are active at the interface of peripheral endocrine events and neural mechanisms. Thus their effects present an important peripheral signaling system to alter brain function. This volume presents state-of-the-art and classical techniques for the study of steroid hormones and their receptors and their effects and actions. Comprehensive protocols included for the study of Steroid kinetics and metabolism Steroid receptors Molecular and cellular effects of steroids Steroid effects on integrated systems

Classical studies of steroid hormones are concerned with their regulation of protein synthesis via the modulation of genomic transcription. But many of the actions of these hormones occur too rapidly to be explained in this manner, particularly their effects on the central nervous system. This text deals with recent discoveries showing that steroids can modulate the activity of some neurotransmitters. It explores the role of GABA as an important regulator of neuronal activity in the central nervous system and its inhibitory action as mediated via the GABA receptor and potentiated by steroids. In addition, the binding of steroids to cell membranes, the components involved and the outcome of such interactions are described. Also discusses possible uses of steroids as anesthetics and anticonvulsants.

Steroid hormone influences on neural circuits throughout life largely determine the quality of the "dialogue" between the endocrine and nervous system, and thus, the function of adaptive mechanisms. This work provides a summary of "classic" knowledge on steroid actions in the brain, and addresses several novel and less explored issues, such as sex steriod-induced gender dichotomy in stress responsiveness, developmental effects of adrenal steroids on brain functions, contribution of steroid hormones to the structural plasticity of the limbic system, and the role of neurosteroids in the developm.

Steroid Hormone Regulation of the Brain focuses on the advancement of knowledge of the properties of brain steroid receptors and steroid target nerve cells, including the actions of gonadal steroids, adrenocortical steroids, and androgenic steroids on the brain. The selection features the work of authors who have inspiringly conducted extensive studies on the action of steroid hormones. The book starts with discussions that point out that steroid hormones not only function through intracellular steroid receptors, but possibly through steroid membrane actions as well. Studies to support this claim are presented. As to the action of steroid hormones on presynaptic transmitter mechanisms, the book suggests that adrenocortical and gonadal steroids can create alterations in noradrenaline, adrenaline, and dopamine levels and turnover within the hypothalamus and preoptic area. The effects of catecholestrogens on the brain are also elaborated. A contribution to this paper stresses that estrogens have antidopaminergic action in the extrapyramidal system. This idea is identified through a series of behavioral experiments and measurements of the levels of striatal acetylcholine. This selection is recommended to scientists interested in studying the effect of hormones on the brain.

Neuroplasticity, Development, and Steroid Hormone Action explores the effects of steroid hormones on brain development, function, and aging and is a compilation of cutting-edge research of concern to the disciplines of neurobiology, neuroendocrinology, endocrinology, and developmental biology. The experimental approaches covered range from molecular to behavioral and endocrine to neurobiological. The authors are noted neurobiologists and active researchers from the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Divided into five sections and containing scientific photographs, line drawings, tables, color illustrations, and graphs, this interesting and timely text covers the neuroplastic effects of steroid hormones throughout the lifetime of various animal models, such as bees, fish, lizards, turtles, birds, mice, rats, and primates. These sections focus on: Ÿ The development and differentiation of neuroendocrine systems Ÿ Steroid dependent brain differentiation Ÿ The central regulation of hormone secretion Ÿ Steroid hormones and neuroplasticity in the mature brain Ÿ Steroid mediated mechanisms of cell growth and survival

This book provides an up-to-date overview of the role of neurosteroids and neuroactive steroids in the regulation of brain processes and neuropsychiatric disorders. It addresses the neurosteroid function in brain development and plasticity, in both the normal and the pathological brain. It also suggests possible therapeutic approaches to the use of natural occurring or sinthetic neurosteroids. The contributors suggest that neuroactive steroids could have a role in clinical practice.

Estrogen and testosterone have an important impact on the operation of certain parts of the brain. This book describes the neurobiological bases for the understanding of the interactions between these sex hormones and the brain. It covers a broad range of topics, extending from the molecular and cellular processes, through the action of steroids on neurotransmission, all the way to defining the brain circuitry involved in both male and female behavior. This volume presents a snapshot of the rapidly advancing field of reproductive neuroendocrinology and will be an important resource for graduate students and professionals in neuroscience and animal behavior.