Neurosteroids in Adult Hippocampus of Male and Female Rodents: Biosynthesis and Actions of Sex Steroids
April 2018
in “
Frontiers in endocrinology
”
TLDR Sex steroids produced in the hippocampus are crucial for brain functions like memory and learning in rodents.
The document reviewed the biosynthesis and actions of sex steroids in the adult hippocampus of male and female rodents, emphasizing the role of neurosteroids like estradiol and testosterone in modulating synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, and memory functions. It highlighted the presence of enzymes necessary for local steroidogenesis within the hippocampus and discussed analytical techniques for measuring neurosteroids. The findings indicated that fluctuations in sex steroid levels, influenced by factors such as the estrous cycle and environmental conditions, significantly impacted hippocampal function and structure, suggesting important implications for understanding sex differences in brain function and developing therapeutic strategies for neuropsychiatric disorders.
