Corticosterone Enhances the Potency of Ethanol Against Hippocampal Long-Term Potentiation via Local Neurosteroid Synthesis

    Yukitoshi Izumi, Kazuko A. O’Dell, Charles F. Zorumski
    TLDR Corticosterone makes ethanol more effective at blocking brain processes important for learning and memory.
    The study found that corticosterone enhanced the potency of ethanol in blocking long-term potentiation (LTP) in rat hippocampal slices by promoting local neurosteroid synthesis. While corticosterone or ethanol alone did not inhibit LTP, their combination completely blocked its induction. This effect was linked to neurosteroid synthesis, as it was prevented by finasteride, an inhibitor of neurosteroid synthesis. The findings suggested that corticosterone could increase the impact of ethanol on synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory, highlighting the role of neurosteroids in modulating ethanol's effects on the brain.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    3 / 3 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 40 results

      community Trying to understand finasteride side effects and post finasteride syndrome

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  66 upvotes 5 years ago
      The conversation discusses the side effects of finasteride, including low libido and erectile dysfunction, and the possibility of these effects being permanent, known as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Some users report personal experiences with PFS and debate whether the condition is real, with varying opinions on the reversibility of side effects and the role of individual biology.

      community Betnovate Scalp for hair loss?

      in Product  2 upvotes 2 years ago
      A dermatologist prescribed Betnovate scalp, a corticosteroid, for a 21-year-old male's hair loss due to DHT. The individual is considering using Nizoral shampoo, topical finasteride, a derma roller, and minoxidil, but is unsure about the effectiveness of two other products suggested by the dermatologist.

      community One Year Progress (Topical Fin/Min)

      in Progress Pictures  156 upvotes 7 months ago
      The user experienced significant hair regrowth over a year using topical finasteride (0.1%) and minoxidil (7%), along with Ketoconazole shampoo, and recently switched to dutasteride and plans to add oral minoxidil. They managed side effects like oily skin and itchiness with a corticosteroid and chose topical treatments initially to limit systemic exposure.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results