TLDR Allopregnanolone helps control oxytocin levels during pregnancy to prevent preterm labor.
The study investigated the role of allopregnanolone in modulating oxytocin responses to immune stress in pregnant rats. It was found that during late pregnancy, allopregnanolone increased and acted on GABAA receptors to enhance inhibitory transmission, leading to opioid inhibition of oxytocin secretion in response to interleukin (IL)-1β. This mechanism helped preserve oxytocin stores for childbirth and reduced the risk of preterm labor. Inhibition of allopregnanolone synthesis with finasteride increased oxytocin secretion in pregnant rats, while allopregnanolone reduced oxytocin response in virgin rats. The study concluded that allopregnanolone and endogenous opioid mechanisms work together to inhibit oxytocin responses during late pregnancy, ensuring adequate oxytocin levels for parturition.
32 citations
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September 2011 in “Journal of Neuroendocrinology” Inhibiting 5α-reductase during late pregnancy shortens gestation, reduces litter size, and harms memory in rat offspring.
123 citations
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May 2009 in “Journal of Neuroscience” In late pregnancy, allopregnanolone reduces stress responses in rats by affecting brain chemicals.
October 2022 in “Biomolecules” Allopregnanolone can reduce gut inflammation and normalize neurotransmitter levels after finasteride withdrawal.
41 citations
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February 2012 in “Journal of Neuroendocrinology” Allopregnanolone helps control oxytocin levels during pregnancy to prevent preterm labor.
22 citations
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December 2010 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Finasteride may increase depression by reducing brain cell growth.
19 citations
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June 2006 in “Physiology & Behavior” Finasteride slows down motherly behavior in first-time pregnant rats.
29 citations
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June 2004 in “Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior” Finasteride reduces alcohol withdrawal effects, especially in female mice.
January 2004 in “Data Archiving and Networked Services (DANS)” Finasteride blocks progesterone's effect on brain activity linked to epilepsy.
23 citations
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July 2003 in “Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior” Finasteride blocks progesterone's effect on absence seizures in rats.
