Neurosteroids in learning and memory processes

Dalzanemdor (SAGE-718), a novel, investigational N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor positive allosteric modulator: Safety, tolerability, and clinical pharmacology in randomized dose-finding studies in healthy participants and an open-label study in participants with Huntington's disease

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) represent a potential therapeutic strategy for cognitive impairment in disorders associated with NMDAR hypofunction, including Huntington's disease (HD) and Alzheimer's disease. Dalzanemdor (SAGE-718) is a novel, investigational NMDAR PAM being evaluated for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment in these disorders. We report first-in-human, phase I, double-blind, dose-finding studies to assess the safety, tolerability, and clinical pharmacology of dalzanemdor. A single-ascending dose study (dalzanemdor 0.35, 0.75, 1.5, or 3.0 mg vs. placebo) was conducted in healthy participants and included food effects. A multiple-ascending dose study (14 days) was conducted in healthy participants (dalzanemdor 0.5 or 1.0 mg vs. placebo) and HD participants (open-label dalzanemdor 1.0 mg) and included exploratory pharmacodynamics on cognitive performance. Dalzanemdor was generally well tolerated with no adverse events leading to discontinuation. Dalzanemdor exhibited pharmacokinetic parameters appropriate for once-daily dosing. Following single and multiple doses in healthy participants, median terminal half-life was 8-118 h, and the median time to reach maximum plasma concentration was 4-7 h. Exposures were dose-proportional after single dose (6-46 ng/mL) and more than dose-proportional after multiple doses (6-41 ng/mL). With multiple dosing, a steady state was achieved after 11 days in healthy participants and 13 days in HD participants. Dalzanemdor exposure decreased slightly with food. In HD participants, results suggest that dalzanemdor may improve cognitive performance on tests of executive function. These results support continued clinical development of dalzanemdor for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment in disorders of NMDAR hypofunction.

The GABA system, a new target for medications against cognitive impairment-Associated with neuroactive steroids

The prevalence of cognitive dysfunction, dementia, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing in parallel with an aging population. Distinct types of chronic stress are thought to be instrumental in the development of cognitive impairment in central nervous system (CNS) disorders where cognitive impairment is a major unmet medical need. Increased GABAergic tone is a mediator of stress effects but is also a result of other factors in CNS disorders. Positive GABA-A receptor modulating stress and sex steroids (steroid-PAMs) such as allopregnanolone (ALLO) and medroxyprogesterone acetate can provoke impaired cognition. As such, ALLO impairs memory and learning in both animals and humans. In transgenic AD animal studies, continuous exposure to ALLO at physiological levels impairs cognition and increases degenerative AD pathology, whereas intermittent ALLO injections enhance cognition, indicating pleiotropic functions of ALLO. We have shown that GABA-A receptor modulating steroid antagonists (GAMSAs) can block the acute negative cognitive impairment of ALLO on memory in animal studies and in patients with cognitive impairment due to hepatic encephalopathy. Here we describe disorders affected by steroid-PAMs and opportunities to treat these adverse effects of steroid-PAMs with novel GAMSAs.

Novel neuroactive steroids as positive allosteric modulators of NMDA receptors: mechanism, site of action, and rescue pharmacology on GRIN variants associated with neurological conditions

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play vital roles in normal brain functions (i.e., learning, memory, and neuronal development) and various neuropathological conditions, such as epilepsy, autism, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and traumatic brain injury. Endogenous neuroactive steroids such as 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol (24(S)-HC) have been shown to influence NMDAR activity, and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) derived from 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol scaffold can also enhance NMDAR function. This study describes the structural determinants and mechanism of action for 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol and two novel synthetic analogs (SGE-550 and SGE-301) on NMDAR function. We also show that these agents can mitigate the altered function caused by a set of loss-of-function missense variants in NMDAR GluN subunit-encoding GRIN genes associated with neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. We anticipate that the evaluation of novel neuroactive steroid NMDAR PAMs may catalyze the development of new treatment strategies for GRIN-related neuropsychiatric conditions.

Do neurosteroids have impact on depression and cognitive functions in cases with acromegaly?

OBJECTIVE

Neurosteroids (NSs) are a distinct hormone group and, they are known for their contribution into the status of mood and cognitive functions. Whether they are also involved in the mood disturbances and cognition in acromegaly is not known. Herein we aimed to evaluate the relation of mood status and cognitive functions with the NS levels in cases with acromegaly.

DESIGN

A total of 33 cases with acromegaly composed the acromegaly group (AG) and, 30 age and gender-matched cases without acromegaly composed the control group (CG). The levels of Allopregnanolone (AP), pregnenolone (PRG), 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24OHC), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androsterone (ADT), GH and IGF-1 were measured in each group. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to assess depressive symptoms, whereas an extensive neuropsychological assessment with several neurocognitive tests were carried out for each subject by an experienced psychologist.

RESULTS

Cases with acromegaly had lower 24OHC and DHEA levels (p = 0.002 and p = 0.007, respectively) in comparison to CG. Of the cognitive functions time to complete 1 s Series was significantly higher and, the scores on Switching Verbal Fluency Test, Boston Naming Test (BNT)-semantic and BNT-phonological, the highest learning point of Oktem Verbal Memory Processes Test (VMPT) were significantly lower in cases with acromegaly in comparison to those in controls (p = 0.004, p = 0.01, p < 0.001, p = 0.02 and p = 0.05, respectively). KAS-perseveration errors were higher in CG (p = 0.03). In AG the levels of AP were negatively correlated with the scores on Months backward Test (MBT), Animal Naming Test, Construction, BNT-spontaneous and positively correlated with BNT-incorrect answers; PRG was positively correlated with VMPT-retention scores, ADT was negatively correlated with MBT and 3 s Series scores, DHEAS was positively correlated with VMPT-the highest learning point whereas it was negatively correlated with MBT scores. Additionally, the scores on BDI were positively correlated with DHEA levels in AG.

CONCLUSION

Cognitive changes may be encountered in acromegaly and, neurosteroids may contribute to the changes in certain cognitive functions.

Medroxyprogesterone acetate positively modulates specific GABAA-receptor subtypes - affecting memory and cognition

Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a progestin widely used in humans as hormone replacement therapy and at other indications. Many progestin metabolites, as the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, have GABA_A-receptor modulatory effects and are known to affect memory, learning, appetite, and mood. In women, 4 years chronic treatment with MPA doubles the frequency of dementia and in rats, MPA causes cognitive impairment related to the GABAergic system. Activation of the membrane bound GABA_A receptor results in a chloride ion flux that can be studied by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings. The purpose of this study was to clarify the modulatory effects of MPA and specific MPA metabolites, with structures like known GABA_A-receptor modulators, on different GABA_A-receptor subtypes. An additional aim was to verify the results as steroid effects on GABA response in single cells taken from rat hypothalamus. HEK-293 cell-lines permanently expressing the recombinant human GABA_A-receptor subtype α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L or α2β3γ2S were created. The MPA metabolites 3α5α-MPA,3β5α-MPA and 3β5β-MPA were synthesised and purified for electrophysiological patch-clamp measurements with a Dynaflow system. The effects of MPA and tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone were also studied. None of the studied MPA metabolites affected the responses mediated by α1β2γ2L or α5β3γ2L GABA_A receptors. Contrary, MPA clearly acted both as a positive modulator and as a direct activator of the α5β3γ2L and α2β3γ2S GABA_A receptors. However, in concentrations up to 10 μM, MPA was inactive at the α1β2γ2L GABA_A receptor. In the patch-clamp recordings from dissociated cells of the preoptic area in rats, MPA increased the amplitude of responses to GABA. In addition, MPA alone without added GABA, evoked a current response. In conclusion, MPA acts as a positive modulator of specific GABA_A receptor subtypes expressed in HEK cells and at native GABA receptors in single cells from the hypothalamic preoptic area.

Positive GABAA receptor modulating steroids and their antagonists: Implications for clinical treatments

GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and GABAergic transmission has been shown to be of importance for regulation of mood, memory and food intake. The progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone (Allo) is a positive GABA_A receptor modulating steroid with potent effects. In humans, disorders such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), hepatic encephalopathy and polycystic ovarian syndrome are associated with elevated Allo levels and increased negative mood, disturbed memory and increased food intake in some individuals. This is surprising because Allo shares many properties with benzodiazepines and is mainly considered to be anxiolytic and anti-depressant. However, it is well established that, in certain individuals, GABA_A receptor activating compounds could have paradoxical effects and thus be anxiogenic in low physiological plasma concentrations but anxiolytic at high levels. We have demonstrated that isoallopregnanolone (Isoallo), the 3β-OH sibling of Allo, functions as a GABA_A receptor modulating steroid antagonist (GAMSA) but without any effects of its own on GABA_A receptors. The antagonistic effect is noted in most GABA_A subtypes investigated in vitro to date. In vivo, Isoallo can inhibit Allo-induced anaesthesia in rats, as well as sedation or saccadic eye velocity in humans. Isoallo treatment has been studied in women with PMDD. In a first phase II study, Isoallo (Sepranolone; Asarina Pharma) injections significantly ameliorated negative mood in women with PMDD compared with placebo. Several GAMSAs for oral administration have also been developed. The GAMSA, UC1011, can inhibit Allo induced memory disturbances in rats and an oral GAMSA, GR3027, has been shown to restore learning and motor coordination in rats with hepatic encephalopathy. In humans, vigilance, cognition and pathological electroencephalogram were improved in patients with hepatic encephalopathy on treatment with GR3027. In conclusion GAMSAs are a new possible treatment for disorders and symptoms caused by hyperactivity in the GABA_A system.

Hypothalamic Astrocyte Development and Physiology for Neuroprogesterone Induction of the Luteinizing Hormone Surge

Neural circuits in female rats sequentially exposed to estradiol and progesterone underlie so-called estrogen positive feedback that induce the surge release of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) leading to ovulation and luteinization of the corpus hemorrhagicum. It is now well-established that gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons express neither the reproductively critical estrogen receptor-α (ERα) nor classical progesterone receptor (PGR). Estradiol from developing ovarian follicles acts on ERα-expressing kisspeptin neurons in the rostral periventricular region of the third ventricle (RP3V) to induce PGR expression, and kisspeptin release. Circulating estradiol levels that induce positive feedback also induce neuroprogesterone (neuroP) synthesis in hypothalamic astrocytes. This local neuroP acts on kisspeptin neurons that express PGR to augment kisspeptin expression and release needed to stimulate GnRH release, triggering the LH surge. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that neuroP signaling in kisspeptin neurons occurs through membrane PGR activation of Src family kinase (Src). This signaling cascade has been also implicated in PGR signaling in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, suggesting that Src may be a common mode of membrane PGR signaling. Sexual maturation requires that signaling between neuroP synthesizing astrocytes, kisspeptin and GnRH neurons be established. Prior to puberty, estradiol does not facilitate the synthesis of neuroP in hypothalamic astrocytes. During pubertal development, levels of membrane ERα increase in astrocytes coincident with an increase of PKA phosphorylation needed for neuroP synthesis. Currently, it is not clear whether these developmental changes occur in existing astrocytes or are due to a new population of astrocytes born during puberty. However, strong evidence suggests that it is the former. Blocking new cell addition during puberty attenuates the LH surge. Together these results demonstrate the importance of pubertal maturation involving hypothalamic astrocytes, estradiol-induced neuroP synthesis and membrane-initiated progesterone signaling for the CNS control of ovulation and reproduction.

GABA-A receptor modulating steroids in acute and chronic stress; relevance for cognition and dementia?

Cognitive dysfunction, dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are increasing as the population worldwide ages. Therapeutics for these conditions is an unmet need. This review focuses on the role of the positive GABA-A receptor modulating steroid allopregnanolone (APα), it's role in underlying mechanisms for impaired cognition and of AD, and to determine options for therapy of AD. On one hand, APα given intermittently promotes neurogenesis, decreases AD-related pathology and improves cognition. On the other, continuous exposure of APα impairs cognition and deteriorates AD pathology. The disparity between these two outcomes led our groups to analyze the mechanisms underlying the difference. We conclude that the effects of APα depend on administration pattern and that chronic slightly increased APα exposure is harmful to cognitive function and worsens AD pathology whereas single administrations with longer intervals improve cognition and decrease AD pathology. These collaborative assessments provide insights for the therapeutic development of APα and APα antagonists for AD and provide a model for cross laboratory collaborations aimed at generating translatable data for human clinical trials.

Cascade biotransformation of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) by Beauveria species

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus used as a biological control agent. It is a well-known biocatalyst for the transformation of steroid compounds. Hydroxylations at the 7α or 11α position and oxidation to D-homo lactones are described in the literature. In our study, we examined the diversity of metabolism of five different B. bassiana strains and compared them to already known pathways. According to the literature, 7α and 11α-hydroxy derivatives as well as 3β,11α-dihydroxy-17a-oxa-D-homo-androst-5-en-17-one have been observed. Here we describe new DHEA metabolic pathways and two products not described before: 3β-hydroxy-17a-oxa-D-homo-androst-5-en-7,17-dione and 3β,11α-dihydroxyandrost-5-en-7,17-dione. We also used for the first time another species from this genus, Beauveria caledonica, for steroid transformation. DHEA was hydroxylated at the 7α, 7β and 11α positions and then reactions of oxidation and reduction leading to 3β,11α-dihydroxyandrost-5-en-7,17-dione were observed. All tested strains from the Beauveria genus effectively transformed the steroid substrate using several different enzymes, resulting in cascade transformation.

Neurosteroid pregnenolone sulfate, alone, and as augmentation of lurasidone or tandospirone, rescues phencyclidine-induced deficits in cognitive function and social interaction

BACKGROUND

Pregnenolone sulfate (PregS), an endogenous neurosteroid, which negatively and positively modulates gamma amino butyric acid subunit A (GABA_A) and N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (R) respectively, among other potential neuroplastic changes on synaptic processes, has shown some beneficial effects on treating cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) and negative symptoms. Lurasidone (Lur), an atypical antipsychotic drug (AAPD), and tandospirone (Tan), a 5-HT_1A R partial agonist, have also been reported to improve cognitive or negative symptoms, or both, in some schizophrenia patients.

METHODS

We tested whether PregS, by itself, and in combination with Lur or Tan could rescue persistent deficits produced by subchronic treatment with the NMDAR antagonist, phencyclidine (PCP)-in episodic memory, executive functioning, and social behavior, using novel object recognition (NOR), operant reversal learning (ORL), and social interaction (SI) tasks, in male C57BL/6 J mice.

RESULTS

PregS (10, but not 3 mg/kg) significantly rescued subchronic PCP-induced NOR and SI deficits. Co-administration of sub-effective doses (SEDs) of PregS (3 mg/kg) + Lur (0.1 mg/kg) or Tan (0.03 mg/kg) rescued scPCP-induced NOR and SI deficits. Further, PregS (30, but not 10 mg/kg) rescued PCP-induced ORL deficit, as did the combination of SED PregS (10 mg/kg) +SED Lur (1 mg/kg) or Tan (1 mg/kg).

CONCLUSION

PregS was effective alone and as adjunctive treatment for treating two types of cognitive impairments and negative symptoms in this schizophrenia model. Further study of the mechanisms by which PregS alone and in combination with AAPDs and 5-HT_1A R partial agonists, rescues the deficits in cognition and SI in this preclinical model is indicated.

Neurosteroids in Schizophrenia: Pathogenic and Therapeutic Implications

Neurosteroids are a group of important endogenous molecules affecting many neural functions in the brain. Increasing evidence suggests a possible role of these neurosteroids in the pathology and symptomatology of schizophrenia (SZ) and other mental disorders. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the neural functions of neurosteroids in the brain, and to evaluate the role of the key neurosteroids as candidate modulators in the etiology and therapeutics of SZ. The present paper provides a brief introduction of neurosteroid metabolism and distribution, followed by a discussion of the mechanisms underlying neurosteroid actions in the brain. The content regarding the modulation of the GABAA receptor is elaborated, given the considerable knowledge of its interactions with other neurotransmitter and neuroprotective systems, as well as its ameliorating effects on stress that may play a role in the SZ pathophysiology. In addition, several preclinical and clinical studies suggested a therapeutic benefit of neurosteroids in SZ patients, even though the presence of altered neurosteroid pathways in the circulating blood and/or brain remains debatable. Following treatment of antipsychotic drugs in SZ, therapeutic benefits have also been linked to the regulation of neurosteroid signaling. Specifically, the neurosteroids such as pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone affect a broad spectrum of behavioral functions through their unique molecular characteristics and may represent innovative therapeutic targets for SZ. Future investigations in larger cohorts with long-term follow-ups will be required to ascertain the neuropsychopharmacological role of this yet unexploited class of neurosteroid agents.

Effect of aromatase inhibitors on learning and memory and modulation of hippocampal dickkopf-1 and sclerostin in female mice

BACKGROUND

There has been conflicting reports on the effect of third generation aromatase inhibitors on cognition in estrogen-deficient states. Since aromatase inhibitors themselves cause estrogen deprivation, the present work was designed to evaluate the comparative effect of three aromatase inhibitors on behavioral measures of learning and memory in female mice. Further, in view of the reports of estrogen and Wnt signaling pathway in cognition, the role of two Wnt signaling antagonists (dickkopf-1 and sclerostin) in mediation of cognitive effects of aromatase inhibitors was evaluated.

METHODS

Three behavioral paradigms were used for evaluating cognitive functions viz. Morris water maze, active avoidance learning and spontaneous alternation behavior following 10-15days of administration with aromatase inhibitors and the levels of dickkopf-1 and sclerostin were evaluated in hippocampus of female mice.

RESULTS

Anastrozole and letrozole (but not exemestane) impaired learning and memory as indicated by increase in escape latency and path length during spatial acquisition, reduction of % quadrant dwell time in Morris water maze, reduction of % avoidance and increase in escape responses in active avoidance learning and decrease in % alternation in a cross maze. The behavioral effects correlated well with the levels of dickkopf-1 and sclerostin in the mouse hippocampus. The highest impairment in learning and memory occurred with letrozole followed by anastrozole while exemestane was without such effects.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that aromatase inhibitors have adverse impact on cognition. Furthermore, modulation of Wnt signaling following estrogen depletion possibly contributed to observed effects in case of anastrozole and letrozole.

Reduced tonic inhibition in the dentate gyrus contributes to chronic stress-induced impairments in learning and memory

It is well established that stress impacts the underlying processes of learning and memory. The effects of stress on memory are thought to involve, at least in part, effects on the hippocampus, which is particularly vulnerable to stress. Chronic stress induces hippocampal alterations, including but not limited to dendritic atrophy and decreased neurogenesis, which are thought to contribute to chronic stress-induced hippocampal dysfunction and deficits in learning and memory. Changes in synaptic transmission, including changes in GABAergic inhibition, have been documented following chronic stress. Recently, our laboratory demonstrated shifts in EGABA in CA1 pyramidal neurons following chronic stress, compromising GABAergic transmission and increasing excitability of these neurons. Interestingly, here we demonstrate that these alterations are unique to CA1 pyramidal neurons, since we do not observe shifts in EGABA following chronic stress in dentate gyrus granule cells. Following chronic stress, there is a decrease in the expression of the GABAA receptor (GABAA R) δ subunit and tonic GABAergic inhibition in dentate gyrus granule cells, whereas there is an increase in the phasic component of GABAergic inhibition, evident by an increase in the peak amplitude of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs). Given the numerous changes observed in the hippocampus following stress, it is difficult to pinpoint the pertinent contributing pathophysiological factors. Here we directly assess the impact of a reduction in tonic GABAergic inhibition of dentate gyrus granule cells on learning and memory using a mouse model with a decrease in GABAA R δ subunit expression specifically in dentate gyrus granule cells (Gabrd/Pomc mice). Reduced GABAA R δ subunit expression and function in dentate gyrus granule cells is sufficient to induce deficits in learning and memory. Collectively, these findings suggest that the reduction in GABAA R δ subunit-mediated tonic inhibition in dentate gyrus granule cells contributes, at least in part, to deficits in learning and memory associated with chronic stress. These findings have significant implications regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying impairments in learning and memory associated with stress and suggest a role for GABAA R δ subunit containing receptors in dentate gyrus granule cells. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Neurosteroids and potential therapeutics: Focus on pregnenolone

Considerable evidence from preclinical and clinical studies shows that steroids and in particular neurosteroids are important endogenous modulators of several brain-related functions. In this context, it remains to be elucidated whether neurosteroids may serve as biomarkers in the diagnosis of disorders and might have therapeutic potential for the treatment of these disorders. Pregnenolone (PREG) is the main steroid synthesized from cholesterol in mammals and invertebrates. PREG has three main sources of synthesis, the gonads, adrenal glands and brain and is submitted to various metabolizing pathways which are modulated depending on various factors including species, steroidogenic tissues and steroidogenic enzymes. Looking at the whole picture of steroids, PREG is often known as the precursor to other steroids and not as an active steroid per se. Actually, physiological and brain functions have been studied mainly for steroids that are very active either binding to specific intracellular receptors, or modulating with high affinity the abundant membrane receptors, GABAA or NMDA receptors. However, when high sensitive and specific methodological approaches were available to analyze low concentrations of steroids and then match endogenous levels of different steroid metabolomes, several studies have reported more significant alterations in PREG than in other steroids in extraphysiological or pathological conditions, suggesting that PREG could play a functional role as well. Additionally, several molecular targets of PREG were revealed in the mammalian brain and beneficial effects of PREG have been demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies. On this basis, this review will be divided into three parts. The first provides a brief overview of the molecular targets of PREG and the pharmacological effects observed in animal and human studies. The second will focus on the possible functional role of PREG with an outline of the modulation of PREG levels in animal and in human research. Finally, the review will highlight the possible therapeutic uses of PREG that point towards the development of pregnenolone-like molecules.

Endogenous 24S-hydroxycholesterol modulates NMDAR-mediated function in hippocampal slices

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), a major subtype of glutamate receptors mediating excitatory transmission throughout the central nervous system (CNS), play critical roles in governing brain function and cognition. Because NMDAR dysfunction contributes to the etiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders including stroke and schizophrenia, NMDAR modulators are potential drug candidates. Our group recently demonstrated that the major brain cholesterol metabolite, 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24S-HC), positively modulates NMDARs when exogenously administered. Here, we studied whether endogenous 24S-HC regulates NMDAR activity in hippocampal slices. In CYP46A1(-/-) (knockout; KO) slices where endogenous 24S-HC is greatly reduced, NMDAR tone, measured as NMDAR-to-α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) ratio, was reduced. This difference translated into more NMDAR-driven spiking in wild-type (WT) slices compared with KO slices. Application of SGE-301, a 24S-HC analog, had comparable potentiating effects on NMDAR EPSCs in both WT and KO slices, suggesting that endogenous 24S-HC does not saturate its NMDAR modulatory site in ex vivo slices. KO slices did not differ from WT slices in either spontaneous neurotransmission or in neuronal intrinsic excitability, and exhibited LTP indistinguishable from WT slices. However, KO slices exhibited higher resistance to persistent NMDAR-dependent depression of synaptic transmission induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), an effect restored by SGE-301. Together, our results suggest that loss of positive NMDAR tone does not elicit compensatory changes in excitability or transmission, but it protects transmission against NMDAR-mediated dysfunction. We expect that manipulating this endogenous NMDAR modulator may offer new treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric dysfunction.

3α-diol administration decreases hippocampal PKA (II) mRNA expression and impairs Morris water maze performance in adult male rats

The effect of testosterone and its metabolites on learning and memory has been the subject of many studies. This study used the Morris water maze task to investigate the effect of intra-hippocampal injection of 3α-diol (one of the metabolites of testosterone) on acquisition stage of spatial memory in adult male rats. During the experiment we observed that 3α-diol, significantly impaired Morris water maze performance in treated rat's compared with controls. Because signaling event mediated by protein kinase A (PKA) especially PKA (II) are critical for many neuronal functions such as learning and memory, the hippocampus was analyzed for mRNA expression of PKA (II) using TaqMan real time RT-PCR. The results indicated that the transcription levels of PKA (II) were significantly decreased in animals treated with 3α-diol compared with controls. Thus, the findings suggest that administration of 3α-diol in hippocampus of adult male rats impairs memory function, possibly via down-regulation of PKA.

Structure-activity relationship studies on neuroactive steroids in memory, alcohol and stress-related functions: a crucial benefit from endogenous level analysis

RATIONALE

New research findings in the field of neuroactive steroids strongly suggest that to understand their role in physiopathology, it is essential to accurately measure their tissue levels. Through his broad chemical expertise and extensive knowledge of steroids, Dr. Robert H. Purdy pioneered structure-activity relationship studies on these compounds and developed innovative detection assays that are essential to assess their function in biological tissues.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the present paper is to point out the specific contributions of Dr. Purdy and his collaborators to the current knowledge on the role of neuroactive steroids in the modulation of memory and alcohol- and stress-related effects with particular emphasis on the detection assays he developed to assess their endogenous levels. Reviewed here are the major results as well as the original and valuable methodological strategies issued by the long-term collaboration between Dr Purdy and many scientists worldwide on the investigation of the structure-activity relationship of neuroactive steroids.

RESULTS

Altogether, the data presented herein put forward the original notion that knowledge of the chemical structure of steroids is essential for their detection and the understanding of their role in physiological and pathological conditions, including the stress response.

CONCLUSIONS

The current challenge is to identify and quantify using appropriate methods neuroactive steroids in the context of both animal and clinical studies in order to reveal how their levels change under physiological and disease states. Dr. Purdy passed away in September 2012, but scientists all over the world will always be grateful for his pioneering work on steroid chemistry and for his great enthusiasm in research.

Human steroid and oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase CYP7B1: substrate specificity, azole binding and misfolding of clinically relevant mutants

Oxysterols and neurosteroids are important signaling molecules produced by monooxygenases of the cytochrome P450 family that realize their effect through nuclear receptors. CYP7B1 catalyzes the 6- or 7-hydroxylation of both steroids and oxysterols and thus is involved in the metabolism of neurosteroids and bile acid synthesis, respectively. The dual physiological role of CYP7B1 is evidenced from different diseases, liver failure and progressive neuropathy, caused by enzyme malfunction. Here we present biochemical characterization of CYP7B1 at the molecular level to understand substrate specificity and susceptibility to azole drugs. Based on our experiments with purified enzyme, the requirements for CYP7B1 hydroxylation of steroid molecules are as follows: C5 hydrogen in the α-configuration (or double bond at C5), a polar group at C17, a hydroxyl group at C3, and the absence of the hydroxyl group at C20-C24 in the C27-sterol side chain. 21-hydroxy-pregnenolone was identified as a new substrate, and overall low activity toward pregnanes could be related to the increased potency of 7-hydroxy derivatives produced by CYP7B1. Metabolic conversion (deactivation) of oxysterols by CYP7B1 in a reconstituted system proceeds via two sequential hydroxylations. Two mutations that are found in patients with diseases, Gly57Arg and Phe216Ser, result in apo-P450 (devoid of heme) protein formation. Our CYP7B1 homology model provides a rationale for understanding clinical mutations and relatively broad substrate specificity for steroid hydroxylase.

Pregnenolone can protect the brain from cannabis intoxication

Pregnenolone is considered the inactive precursor of all steroid hormones, and its potential functional effects have been largely uninvestigated. The administration of the main active principle of Cannabis sativa (marijuana), Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), substantially increases the synthesis of pregnenolone in the brain via activation of the type-1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor. Pregnenolone then, acting as a signaling-specific inhibitor of the CB1 receptor, reduces several effects of THC. This negative feedback mediated by pregnenolone reveals a previously unknown paracrine/autocrine loop protecting the brain from CB1 receptor overactivation that could open an unforeseen approach for the treatment of cannabis intoxication and addiction.

Pregnenolone sulphate enhances spatial orientation and object discrimination in adult male rats: evidence from a behavioural and electrophysiological study

Neurosteroids can alter neuronal excitability interacting with specific neurotransmitter receptors, thus affecting several functions such as cognition and emotionality. In this study we investigated, in adult male rats, the effects of the acute administration of pregnenolone-sulfate (PREGS) (10mg/kg, s.c.) on cognitive processes using the Can test, a non aversive spatial/visual task which allows the assessment of both spatial orientation-acquisition and object discrimination in a simple and in a complex version of the visual task. Electrophysiological recordings were also performed in vivo, after acute PREGS systemic administration in order to investigate on the neuronal activation in the hippocampus and the perirhinal cortex. Our results indicate that, PREGS induces an improvement in spatial orientation-acquisition and in object discrimination in the simple and in the complex visual task; the behavioural responses were also confirmed by electrophysiological recordings showing a potentiation in the neuronal activity of the hippocampus and the perirhinal cortex. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that PREGS systemic administration in rats exerts cognitive enhancing properties which involve both the acquisition and utilization of spatial information, and object discrimination memory, and also correlates the behavioural potentiation observed to an increase in the neuronal firing of discrete cerebral areas critical for spatial learning and object recognition. This provides further evidence in support of the role of PREGS in exerting a protective and enhancing role on human memory.

Sigma-1 receptor knockout impairs neurogenesis in dentate gyrus of adult hippocampus via down-regulation of NMDA receptors

AIMS

This study investigated the influence of sigma-1 receptor (σ1 R) deficiency on adult neurogenesis.

METHODS

We employed 8-week-old male σ1 R knockout (σ1 R(-/-) ) mice to examine the proliferation and differentiation of progenitor cells, and the survival and neurite growth of newborn neurons in hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG).

RESULTS

In comparison with wild-type (WT) littermates, the numbers of 24-h-old BrdU(+) cells and Ki67(+) cells in σ1 R(-/-) mice increased, while the number of 28-day-old BrdU(+) cells decreased without changes in proportion of BrdU(+) /NeuN(+) cells and BrdU(+) /GFAP(+) cells. The neurite density of newborn neurons was slightly reduced in σ1 R(-/-) mice. In DG granular cells, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-activated current (INMDA ) and phosphorylation of NMDA receptor (NMDAr) NR2B were reduced in σ1 R(-/-) mice without the alteration of NR2B expression and membrane properties compared to WT mice. The NR2B antagonist abolished the difference in INMDA between σ1 R(-/-) mice and WT mice. The application of NMDAr agonist in σ1 R(-/-) mice prevented the over-proliferation of cells and reduction in newborn neurons, but it had no effects on the hypoplastic neurite. The administration of NMDAr antagonist in WT mice enhanced the cell proliferation and depressed the survival of newborn neurons.

CONCLUSION

The σ1 R deficiency impairs neurogenesis in DG through down-regulation of NMDArs.

The role of pregnenolone sulphate in spatial orientation-acquisition and retention: an interplay between cognitive potentiation and mood regulation

Neurosteroids can alter neuronal excitability interacting with specific neurotransmitter receptors, thus affecting several functions such as cognition and emotionality. In this study, we investigated, in adult male rats, the effects of the acute administration of pregnenolone-sulfate (PREGS) (10 mg/Kg, s.c.) on cognitive processes using the Can test, a non aversive spatial/visual task which allows the assessment of spatial information-acquisition during the baseline training, and of memory retention in the longitudinal study. Furthermore, on the basis of PREGS pharmacological profile, the modulation of depressive-like behaviour was also evaluated in the forced swim test (FST). Our results indicate that acute PREGS induces: an improvement in spatial orientation-acquisition and in reference memory, during the baseline training; a strengthening effect on reference and working memory during the longitudinal study. A decrease in immobility time in the FST has also been recorded. In conclusion, PREGS exerts enhancing properties on acquisition, consolidation and retrieval of spatial information, probably due of improved hippocampal-dependent memory processes. The additional antidepressant effect observed in the FST can provide further evidence in support of the potential of PREGS as a therapeutic tool for the treatment of cognitive deficits associated with mood disorders. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: insert SI title.

Effects of progesterone and medroxyprogesterone on actin remodeling and neuronal spine formation

Sex steroids are important regulators of neuronal cell morphology, and this is critical for gender differences in brain function and dysfunction. Neuronal morphology is controlled by multiprotein complexes including moesin (a member of the ezrin/radixin/moesin family), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), or the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein-family verprolin homologous (WAVE1) protein, controlling dynamic remodeling of the cytoskeleton and cell membrane. We investigated the actions of natural progesterone (P) and of the synthetic progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on actin remodeling, focal adhesion complex formation, and actin branching in rat cortical neurons. Treatment with P and, to a lesser extent, MPA, increases the number and density of dendritic spines. P increases the phosphorylation of moesin, FAK, and WAVE1, and their redistribution toward cell membrane sites where spines are formed. Signaling to moesin is achieved by PR via a Gα/Gβ-dependent signaling to the small GTPase Ras homolog gene family, member A and its related kinase, Rho-associated kinase-2. In parallel, WAVE1 recruitment is triggered by a Gαi/Gβ-dependent signaling of PR to c-Src, FAK, and Rac1 GTPase. Rac1 recruits cyclin-dependent kinase-5, which phosphorylates WAVE1. Silencing of moesin, FAK, or WAVE1 abrogates the increase in dendritic spines induced by progesterone. In all applications, MPA is found to act similar to P, albeit with a lower efficacy. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the control of actin polymerization and branching and focal adhesion complex formation via moesin, FAK, and WAVE1 is a key function of progesterone receptor in neurons, which may be relevant for the regulation of dendritic spine turnover and neuronal plasticity.

Progesterone impairs social recognition in male rats

The influence of progesterone in the brain and on the behavior of females is fairly well understood. However, less is known about the effect of progesterone in the male system. In male rats, receptors for progesterone are present in virtually all vasopressin (AVP) immunoreactive cells in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST) and the medial amygdala (MeA). This colocalization functions to regulate AVP expression, as progesterone and/or progestin receptors (PR)s suppress AVP expression in these same extrahypothalamic regions in the brain. These data suggest that progesterone may influence AVP-dependent behavior. While AVP is implicated in numerous behavioral and physiological functions in rodents, AVP appears essential for social recognition of conspecifics. Therefore, we examined the effects of progesterone on social recognition. We report that progesterone plays an important role in modulating social recognition in the male brain, as progesterone treatment leads to a significant impairment of social recognition in male rats. Moreover, progesterone appears to act on PRs to impair social recognition, as progesterone impairment of social recognition is blocked by a PR antagonist, RU-486. Social recognition is also impaired by a specific progestin agonist, R5020. Interestingly, we show that progesterone does not interfere with either general memory or olfactory processes, suggesting that progesterone seems critically important to social recognition memory. These data provide strong evidence that physiological levels of progesterone can have an important impact on social behavior in male rats.

Continuous de novo synthesis of neurosteroids is required for normal synaptic transmission and plasticity in the dentate gyrus of the rat hippocampus

Both in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that neurosteroids promote learning and memory by modulating synaptic functions in the hippocampus. However, we do not know to what degree endogenously synthesized neurosteroids contribute to the hippocampal synaptic functions. Cytochrome P450scc is the enzyme that converts cholesterol to pregnenolone (PREG), which is required for the biosynthesis of all other neurosteroids. To investigate the physiological roles of endogenous neurosteroids in synaptic functions, we electrophysiologically examined the effects of aminoglutethimide (AG), a selective inhibitor of P450scc, on the synaptic transmission and plasticity in the dentate gyrus of rat hippocampal slices. The application of AG (100 μM) decreased the slope of the field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in granule cells by 20-30% in 20 min through the modulation of postsynaptic AMPA receptors, while it did not affect the presynaptic properties, including the paired-pulse ratio and the probability of glutamate release from presynaptic terminals. The AG-induced depression was nearly completely rescued by exogenously applied 500 nM PREG or by 1 nM dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), one of the neurosteroids synthesized from PREG, suggesting that the AG-induced depression was caused by the loss of DHEAS. AG also reduced NMDA receptor activity, and suppressed high-frequency stimulation (HFS)-induced long-term potentiation (LTP). These findings provide novel evidence that the endogenous neurosteroids locally synthesized in the brain are required to maintain the normal excitatory synaptic transmission and plasticity in the dentate gyrus of the rat hippocampus.

Effect of 3α-anderostanediol and indomethacin on acquisition, consolidation and retrieval stage of spatial memory in adult male rats

BACKGROUND

Testosterone and its metabolites have important roles in learning and memory. The current study has conducted to assess the effect of pre-training, post-training and pre-probe trial intrahippocampal CA1 administration of 3α-anderostanediol (one of the metabolites of testosterone) and indomethacin (as 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme blocker) on acquisition, consolidation and retrieval in Morris water maze (MWM) task.

METHODS

Adult male rats were bilaterally cannulated into CA1 region of hippocampus and then received 3α-diol (0.2, 1, 3 and 6 mug/0.5 mul/side), indomethacin (1.5, 3 and 6 mug/0.5 mul/side), indomethacin (3 mug/0.5 mul/side) + 3α-diol (1 mug/0.5 mul/side), 25-35 min before training, immediately after training and 25-35 min before probe trial in MWM task.

RESULTS

Our results showed that injection of 3α-diol and indomethacin significantly increased the escape latency and traveled distance to find hidden platform in acquisition and consolidation stage, but did not have any effect on retrieval of spatial learning as compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that intra-CA1 administration of 3α-diol and indomethacin could impair spatial learning and memory in acquisition and consolidation stage. Also, intrahippocampal injection of indomethacin + 3α-diol could not change spatial learning and memory impairment effect of indomethacin or 3α-diol in MWM task.

Neurosteroid and GABA-A receptor alterations in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis

Steroid hormones (e.g. estrogens, androgens, progestagens) which are synthesized de novo or metabolized within the CNS are called neurosteroids. There is substantial evidence from animal studies suggesting that these steroids can affect brain function by modulating neurotransmission, and influence neuronal survival, neuronal and glial differentiation and myelination in the CNS by regulating gene expression of neurotrophic factors and anti-inflammatory molecules. Indeed, evidence is emerging that expression of the enzymes responsible for the synthesis of neurosteroids changes in neurodegenerative diseases. Some of these changes may contribute to the pathology, while others, conversely, may represent an attempted rescue program in the diseased brain. Here we review the data on changes in neurosteroid levels and neurosteroid synthesis pathways in the human brain in three neurodegenerative conditions, Alzheimers's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the extent to which these findings may implicate protective or pathological roles for neurosteroids in the course of these diseases.Some neurosteroids can modulate neurotransmitter activity, for example, the pregnane steroids allopregnanolone and 3α5α-tetrahydro-deoxycorticosterone which are potent positive allosteric modulators of ionotropic GABA-A receptors. Therefore, neurosteroid-modulated GABA-A receptor subunit alterations found in AD and PD will also be discussed. These data imply an involvement of neurosteroid changes in the neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory processes and suggest that they may deserve further investigation as potential therapeutic agents in AD, PD and MS. Finally, suggestions for therapeutic strategies will be included. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Neuroactive Steroids: Focus on Human Brain.

Molecular imaging of σ receptors: synthesis and evaluation of the potent σ1 selective radioligand [18F]fluspidine

PURPOSE

Neuroimaging of σ(1) receptors in the human brain has been proposed for the investigation of the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. However, there is a lack of suitable (18)F-labelled PET radioligands for that purpose.

METHODS

The selective σ(1) receptor ligand [(18)F]fluspidine (1'-benzyl-3-(2-[(18)F]fluoroethyl)-3H-spiro[[2]benzofuran-1,4'-piperidine]) was synthesized by nucleophilic (18)F(-) substitution of the tosyl precursor. In vitro receptor binding affinity and selectivity were assessed by radioligand competition in tissue homogenate and autoradiographic approaches. In female CD-1 mice, in vivo properties of [(18)F]fluspidine were evaluated by ex vivo brain section imaging and organ distribution of intravenously administered radiotracer. Target specificity was validated by organ distribution of [(18)F]fluspidine after treatment with 1 mg/kg i.p. of the σ receptor antagonist haloperidol or the emopamil binding protein (EBP) inhibitor tamoxifen. In vitro metabolic stability and in vivo metabolism were investigated by LC-MS(n) and radio-HPLC analysis.

RESULTS

[(18)F]Fluspidine was obtained with a radiochemical yield of 35-45%, a radiochemical purity of ≥ 99.6% and a specific activity of 150-350 GBq/μmol (n = 6) within a total synthesis time of 90-120 min. In vitro, fluspidine bound specifically and with high affinity to σ(1) receptors (K (i) = 0.59 nM). In mice, [(18)F]fluspidine rapidly accumulated in brain with uptake values of 3.9 and 4.7%ID/g and brain to blood ratios of 7 and 13 at 5 and 30 min after intravenous application of the radiotracer, respectively. By ex vivo autoradiography of brain slices, resemblance between binding site occupancy of [(18)F]fluspidine and the expression of σ(1) receptors was shown. The radiotracer uptake in the brain as well as in peripheral σ(1) receptor expressing organs was significantly inhibited by haloperidol but not by tamoxifen. Incubation with rat liver microsomes led to a fast biotransformation of fluspidine. After an incubation period of 30 min only 13% of the parent compound was left. Seven metabolites were identified by HPLC-UV and LC-MS(n) techniques. However, [(18)F]fluspidine showed a higher metabolic stability in vivo. In plasma samples ∼ 94% of parent compound remained at 30 min and ∼ 67% at 60 min post-injection. Only one major radiometabolite was detected. None of the radiometabolites crossed the blood-brain barrier.

CONCLUSION

[(18)F]Fluspidine demonstrated favourable target affinity and specificity as well as metabolic stability both in vitro and in animal experiments. The in vivo properties of [(18)F]fluspidine offer a high potential of this radiotracer for neuroimaging and quantitation of σ(1) receptors in vivo.

Low brain allopregnanolone levels mediate flattened circadian activity associated with memory impairments in aged rats

BACKGROUND

Sleep and cognitive impairments are two of the most prevalent neuropsychiatric disorders in the aged population. Age-related memory dysfunctions can result from alterations in sleep/wake circadian rhythm. However, the underlying mechanism of these alterations is unknown. Here, we demonstrate the role of alterations in brain steroid levels in age-related sleep-dependent memory impairment in rats.

METHODS

Sleep/wake circadian activity and spatial memory performance were evaluated in adult, middle-aged, and aged rats, and steroid levels were measured in brain structures involved in mediating sleep-dependent memory processes using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The causal relationship between circadian activity and allopregnanolone levels was assessed using an inhibitor of allopregnanolone synthesis (indomethacin).

RESULTS

Similar to observations in humans, a subpopulation of middle-aged and aged rats show flattened amplitude of circadian activity associated with impaired spatial long-term memory performance. Sleep-dependent memory dysfunction was associated with a low level of allopregnanolone in the hypothalamus, pedunculopontine nucleus, and ventral striatum. Inhibition of allopregnanolone synthesis in young rats decreased allopregnanolone in the hypothalamus and produced flattened amplitude of circadian activity similar to aged rats.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings identify brainstem and basal forebrain allopregnanolone as an essential endogenous substrate involved in mediating sleep-dependent memory function in young and aged rats. Allopregnanolone may play a critical role in preserving individuals from age-induced alterations in sleep and memory processes and may represent a novel target for attenuating age-related declines in sleep and memory.

Discovery of neurosteroid glucuronides in mouse brain

Neurosteroid glucuronides were found for the first time in brain samples. The intact glucuronides were extracted from the cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and mid-brain tissues of nicotine- and water-treated mice, and detected with capillary liquid chromatography-electrospray-tandem mass spectrometry (CapLC-ESI-MS/MS). The glucuronides of estradiol, cortisol, corticosterone, tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone, pregnenolone, and isopregnanolone were identified by comparing retention times in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) chromatograms and the relative abundances of two SRM transitions of each neurosteroid glucuronide between the reference and authentic samples, thus providing reliable identification. In vitro experiments, carried out by using S9 fractions from mouse and rat brains, showed a formation of glucuronides with selected test compounds (corticosterone, pregnenolone, and dehydroepiandrosterone), suggesting that biosynthesis of neurosteroid glucuronides is possible in rodent brain.

Intranasal administration of progesterone increases dopaminergic activity in amygdala and neostriatum of male rats

We evaluated the effects of intranasal administration of progesterone (PROG) on the activity of dopaminergic neurons in the brain of anesthetized rats by means of microdialysis. Male Wistar rats were implanted with guide cannulae in the basolateral amygdala and neostriatum. Three to 5 days later, they were anesthetized with urethane, and dialysis probes were inserted. After a stabilization period of 2 h, four 30-min samples were collected. Thereafter, the treatment (0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 mg/kg of PROG dissolved in a viscous castor oil mixture, or vehicle) was applied into the nose in a volume of 10 microl (5 microl in each nostril). In other animals, an s.c. injection of PROG (1.0, 2.0 or 4.0 mg/kg) or vehicle was given. Samples of both application ways were collected at 30-min interval for 4 h after the treatment and immediately analyzed with high performance liquid chromatography and electrochemical detection. Intranasal administration of 2 mg/kg of PROG led to an immediate (within 30 min after the treatment) significant increase in the basolateral amygdala dopamine levels. In the neostriatum, the 2 mg/kg dose led to a delayed significant increase in dopamine. S.c. administration of 4 mg/kg of PROG was followed by a delayed significant increase in dopamine, both, in the basolateral amygdala and neostriatum, but smaller in magnitude in comparison to the intranasal treatment. This is the first study to demonstrate dopamine-enhancing effects of PROG, not only in the neostriatum, but also in the basolateral amygdala. Our results indicate that the intranasal route of administration of PROG is a more efficacious way for targeting the brain than the s.c. route.

Alzheimer's disease drugs: an application of the hormetic dose-response model

This article provides an evaluation of the dose-response features of drugs that are intended to improve memory, some of which have been used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). A common feature of these drugs is that they act via an inverted U-shaped dose response, consistent with the hormetic dose response model. This article assesses historical foundations that lead to the development of AD drugs, their dose-response features and how the quantitative features of such dose responses affected drug discovery and development, and the successes and possible failures of such agents in preclinical and clinical settings. This story begins about 150 years ago with the discovery of an active agent in the Calabar bean plant called physostigmine, its unfolding medical applications, and its implications for dose-response relationships, memory enhancement, and improved drug discovery activities. The article also demonstrates the occurrence of U-shaped dose responses for memory with numerous endogenous agonists including neurosteroids, various peptides (e.g., vasopressin, CCK-8, neuropeptide Y), and other agents (e.g., epinephrine, antagonists for platelet activity factor and nicotinic receptors), supporting the generalizability of the hormetic biphasic dose response. Finally, the significance of the U-shaped dose response is critical for successful clinical application, since it defines the therapeutic window.

Endogenous steroid production in the spinal cord and potential involvement in neuropathic pain modulation

It has recently been demonstrated that the spinal cord (SC) is an active production center of neuroactive steroids including pregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone and allopregnanolone. Indeed, anatomical, cellular and biochemical investigations have shown that the SC dorsal horn (DH), a pivotal structure in nociception, contains various active steroidogenic enzymes such as cytochrome P450side-chain-cleavage, cytochrome P450c17, 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 5alpha-reductase and 3alpha-hydroxysteroid oxido-reductase. Reviewed here are several data obtained with in vitro and vivo experiments showing that endogenous steroids synthesized in the SC are involved in the modulation of nociceptive mechanisms. Various approaches were used as the real-time polymerase chain reaction after reverse transcription to determine the effects of neuropathic pain on the expression of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes in the DH. Combination of the pulse-chase technique with high performance liquid chromatography and continuous flow scintillation detection allowed investigations of the impact of noxious signals on the activity of steroid-producing enzymes in the SC in vitro. Radioimmunological analyses of spinal tissue extracts contributed to determine the link between the painful state and endogenous steroid secretion in the SC in vivo. Finally, the physiological relevance of the modification of endogenous steroid formation in the SC during painful situation was discussed.

Endogenous and synthetic neurosteroids in treatment of Niemann-Pick Type C disease

The functions for neurosteroids during development and in response to nervous system injury are beginning to be identified. We focused on a mouse model in which we believed neurosteroid production would be altered, and which had a neurodegenerative phenotype. Niemann-Pick Type-C (NP-C) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in NPC1 (95%) or NPC2 (5%), resulting in lysosomal accumulation of unesterified cholesterol and glycolipids. The NIH mouse model of NP-C has a mutation in the NPC1 gene, and exhibits several pathological features of the most severe NP-C patients. How lysosomal storage and trafficking defects lead to neurodegeneration is unknown. We found that these mice had normal neurosteroidogenic enzyme activity during development, but lost this activity in the early neonatal period, prior to onset of neurological symptoms. Neurons that expressed P450scc, 3beta HSD, as well as those that expressed 3alpha HSD and 5alpha reductase were lost in adult NP-C brains, resulting in diminished concentrations of allopregnanolone. We treated NP-C mice with allopregnanolone and found that a single dose in the neonatal period resulted in a doubling of life span, substantial delay in onset of neurological symptoms, survival of cerebellar Purkinje and granule cell neurons, and reduction in cholesterol and ganglioside accumulation. The mechanism by which allopregnanolone elicited these effects is unknown. Our in vitro studies showed that Purkinje cell survival promoted by allopregnanolone was lost by treatment with bicuculline, suggesting GABA(A) receptors may play a role. We treated NP-C mice with a synthetic GABA(A) neurosteroid, ganaxolone (3alpha-hydroxy-3beta-methyl-5alpha-pregnan-20-one). Ganaxolone treatment of NP-C mice produced beneficial neurological effects, but these effects were not as robust as those obtained using allopregnanolone. Thus, allopregnanolone may elicit its effects through GABA(A) receptors and through other mechanisms. Additional studies also suggest that allopregnanolone may elicit its effects through pregnane-X-receptors (PXR). Our data suggest that mouse models of neurodegeneration may be beneficial in establishing both physiologic and pharmacologic actions of neurosteroids. These animal models further establish the wide range of functions of these compounds, which may ultimately be useful for treatment of human diseases.

Pregnenolone sulfate in the brain: a controversial neurosteroid

Pregnenolone sulfate (PREGS) has been shown, either at high nanomolar or at micromolar concentrations, to increase neuronal activity by inhibiting GABAergic and by stimulating glutamatergic neurotransmission. PREGS is also a potent modulator of sigma type 1 (sigma1) receptors. It has been proposed that these actions of PREGS underlie its neuropharmacological effects, and in particular its influence on memory processes. On the other hand, the PREGS-mediated increase in neuronal excitability may become dangerous under particular conditions, for example in the case of excitotoxic stress or convulsions. However, the physiopathological significance of these observations has recently been put into question by the failure to detect significant levels of PREGS within the brain and plasma of rats and mice, either by direct analytical methods based on liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) or enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with specific antibodies against PREGS, or by indirect gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis with improved sample workup. These recent results have not come to the attention of a large number of neurobiologists interested in steroid sulfates. However, although available direct analytical methods have failed to detect levels of PREGS above 0.1-0.3 ng/g in brain tissue, it may be premature to completely exclude the local formation of biologically active PREGS within specific and limited compartments of the nervous system. In contrast to the situation in rodents, significant levels of sulfated 3beta-hydroxysteroids have been measured in human plasma and brain. Previous indirect measures of steroid sulfates by radioimmunoassays (RIA) or GC/MS had detected elevated levels of PREGS in rodent brain. The discrepancies between the results of different assay procedures have revealed the danger of indirect analysis of steroid sulfates. Indeed, PREGS must be solvolyzed/hydrolyzed prior to RIA or GC/MS analysis, and it is the released, unconjugated PREG which is then quantified. Extreme caution needs to be exercised during the preparation of samples for RIA or GC/MS analysis, because the fraction presumed to contain only steroid sulfates can be contaminated by nonpolar components from which PREG is generated by the solvolysis/hydrolysis/derivatization reactions.

Temporal effects of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate on memory formation in day-old chicks

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) has been shown to enhance memory retention in different animal models and in various learning paradigms. In the present study, we investigated the effect of peripherally administered DHEAS on the acquisition, consolidation and retention of memory using a weak version of the one-trial passive avoidance task in day-old chicks. Intraperitoneally administered DHEAS (20 mg/kg) either 30 min before or 30 min and 4.5 h after training on the weakly aversive stimulus, enhanced recall at 24 h following training, suggesting a potentiation of not only the acquisition but also the early and late phases of memory consolidation. In contrast, when DHEAS was administered at 30 min prior to the 24 h retention test there was no memory enhancement, indicating a lack of effect on memory retrieval. Memory recall was unaltered when DHEAS was administered at 30 min before training in a control group trained on a strongly aversive stimulus, confirming memory-specific effects. Interestingly, the memory enhancement appeared to be sex-specific as male chicks showed higher recall than females. These findings provide further evidence that DHEAS enhances memory and may be involved in the temporal cascade of long-term memory formation.

Neurosteroid-induced enhancement of short-term facilitation involves a component downstream from presynaptic calcium in hippocampal slices

We used Magnesium Green AM to measure Ca(2+) transients in Schaffer collateral presynaptic terminals simultaneously with postsynaptic field potentials (fEPSPs) to investigate the mechanism of neurosteroid enhancement of short-term synaptic facilitation. Measurement of [Ca(2+)](i), isolated to presynaptic events, using the fluorescence ratio (DeltaF/F(0)) demonstrated that at a constant stimulus intensity there was no change in the excitability of presynaptic fibres between paired stimuli or between ACSF and 1 mum pregnenolone sulphate (PREGS). Paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) was correlated with residual Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](res)), and there was an additional increase in the integralDeltaF/F(0) for the [Ca(2+)](res)-subtracted response to the second of paired stimuli, resulting primarily from a slowing of the decay time constant. In addition to the role of presynaptic [Ca(2+)](res) in PPF, we observed a decrease in EC(50) and a greater maximum for Hill function fits to fEPSP versus DeltaF/F(0) during the second of paired responses. The enhancement of fEPSP PPF by PREGS did not result from an increase of DeltaF/F(0). The data presented here support a PREGS-induced increase in presynaptic glutamate release from the second, but not the first, of a pair of stimuli for a given presynaptic [Ca(2+)] because: (a) there is actually a decrease in the integralDeltaF/F(0) of the [Ca(2+)](res)-subtracted second response over that seen in ACSF; (b) PREGS causes no change in presynaptic Ca(2+) buffering; and (c) there is a decrease in EC(50) and an increase of y(max) in the Hill function fits to DeltaF/F(0) versus fEPSP data. We hypothesize that PREGS enhances short-term facilitation by acting on the Ca(2+)-dependent vesicle release machinery and that this mechanism plays a role in the cognitive effects of this sulphated neurosteroid.

Neuro(active)steroids actions at the neuromodulatory sigma1 (sigma1) receptor: biochemical and physiological evidences, consequences in neuroprotection

Steroids from peripheral sources or synthesized in the brain, i.e. neurosteroids, exert rapid modulations of neurotransmitter responses through specific interactions with membrane receptors, mainly the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptor and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) type of glutamate receptor. Progesterone and 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) act as inhibitory steroids while pregnenolone sulfate or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate act as excitatory steroids. Some steroids also interact with an atypical protein, the sigma(1) (sigma(1)) receptor. This receptor has been cloned in several species and is centrally expressed in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Activation of the sigma(1) receptor modulates cellular Ca(2+) mobilization, particularly from endoplasmic reticulum pools, and contributes to the formation of lipid droplets, translocating towards the plasma membrane and contributing to the recomposition of lipid microdomains. The present review details the evidences showing that the sigma(1) receptor is a target for neurosteroids in physiological conditions. Analysis of the sigma(1) protein sequence confirmed homologies with the ERG2/emopamil binding protein family but also with the steroidogenic enzymes isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase and 17beta-estradiol dehydrogenase. Biochemical and physiological arguments for an interaction of neuro(active)steroids with the sigma(1) receptor are analyzed and the impact on physiopathological outcomes in neuroprotection is illustrated.

Expression of spinal NMDA receptor and PKCgamma after chronic morphine is regulated by spinal glucocorticoid receptor

Spinal NMDA receptor (NMDAR), protein kinase C (PKC), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) have all been implicated in the mechanisms of morphine tolerance; however, how these cellular elements interact after chronic morphine exposure remains unclear. Here we show that the expression of spinal NMDAR and PKCgamma after chronic morphine is regulated by spinal GR through a cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB)-dependent pathway. Chronic morphine (10 microg, i.t.; twice daily for 6 d) induced a time-dependent upregulation of GR, the NR1 subunit of NMDAR, and PKCgamma within the rat's spinal cord dorsal horn. This NR1 and PKCgamma upregulation was significantly diminished by intrathecal coadministration of morphine with the GR antagonist RU38486 or a GR antisense oligodeoxynucleotide. Intrathecal coadministration of morphine with an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor (2',5'-dideoxyadenosine) or a protein kinase A inhibitor (H89) also significantly attenuated morphine-induced NR1 and PKCgamma expression, whereas intrathecal treatment with an adenylyl cyclase activator (forskolin) alone mimicked morphine-induced expression of GR, NR1, and PKCgamma. Moreover, the expression of phosphorylated CREB was upregulated within the spinal cord dorsal horn after chronic morphine, and a CREB antisense oligodeoxynucleotide coadministered intrathecally with morphine prevented the upregulation of GR, NR1, and PKCgamma. These results indicate that spinal GR through the cAMP-CREB pathway played a significant role in NMDAR and PKCgamma expression after chronic morphine exposure. The data suggest that genomic interaction among spinal GR, NMDAR, and PKCgamma may be an important mechanism that contributes to the development of morphine tolerance.

Investigation of changes in global gene expression in the frontal cortex of early-weaned and socially isolated piglets using microarray and quantitative real-time RT-PCR

We hypothesize that early-weaned piglets experience aberrant expression of stress-responsive genes in the frontal cortex, a key brain area involved in cognitive function and behavior organization. To test this hypothesis, female early-weaned piglets (EW; n = 6) were weaned 10 days after birth, while non-weaned piglets (NW; n = 6) were left with their dams. Half of EW (n = 3) and NW (n = 3) animals were socially isolated (SI) for 15 min at 12 days of age, when all animals (n = 12) were euthanized and tissue collected. The effects of EW and SI were examined by gene expression profiling using cDNA microarray hybridizations, generated from a porcine brain cDNA library. A total of 103 genes were differentially expressed (P < 0.05, fold change >1.25) among four direct comparisons. Forty-two genes had known functions, from which 24 showed relevant brain-related functions. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-RT-PCR) was used to confirm regulation of expression of a subset of 6 genes with important brain functions, selected from the microarray outcomes. In non-weaned animals, a significant suppression of mRNA abundance for carboxypeptidase E, 14-3-3 protein and phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes 15 kDa was observed in response to SI. Also, in early-weaned animals, diazepam binding inhibitor and actin-related protein 2/3 complex mRNA levels were suppressed in response to SI. Results suggest that social isolation of non- and early-weaned piglets may impact expression of genes involved in regulation of neuronal function, development, and protection in the frontal cortex of young pigs.

Modulation of neurosteroid production in human neuroblastoma cells by Alzheimer's disease key proteins

Studies performed with animals suggest neurosteroid involvement in neuroprotection. However in humans, the role of neurosteroidogenesis in the regulation of degenerative processes is unknown. To determine whether cellular factors intervening in degenerative mechanisms may interfere with the process of neurosteroidogenesis in humans, we combined pulse-chase experiments with HPLC and continuous flow scintillation detection to compare neurosteroid production in normal and transfected SH-SY5Y cells with key proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Microscope analyses revealed that cell morphology was unchanged in stably transfected SH-SY5Y cells overexpressing human native tau (hTau40), mutant tau (P301L), and wild-type amyloid precursor protein (APPwt) compared to controls. Biochemical investigations showed that hTau40 enhanced progesterone (PROG), 17OHPROG, testosterone, and 3alpha-androstanediol neosynthesis from pregnenolone. In contrast, tau with the pathogenic P301L mutation was devoid of action on neurosteroidogenesis. Overexpression of APPwt inhibited PROG formation, did not affect 17OHPROG and testosterone, but increased 3alpha-androstanediol and estradiol synthesis. Extracellular treatment of control cells with aggregated amyloid peptide mimicked the action of APPwt expression on PROG but not on 3alpha-androstanediol and estradiol production. Moreover, PROG biosynthesis in APPwt cells was up-regulated in the presence of a gamma-secretase inhibitor. Our results provide the first evidence for the regulation of neurosteroid biosynthesis by key proteins involved in the etiology of AD. The data suggest that pathogenic factors may induce neurodegeneration in humans through the reduction of the synthesis of endogenous neuroprotective neurosteroids in nerve cells.

The Sigma1 Protein as a Target for the Non-genomic Effects of Neuro(active)steroids: Molecular, Physiological, and Behavioral Aspects

Steroids synthesized in the periphery or de novo in the brain, so called 'neurosteroids', exert both genomic and nongenomic actions on neurotransmission systems. Through rapid modulatory effects on neurotransmitter receptors, they influence inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. In particular, progesterone derivatives like 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) are positive allosteric modulators of the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptor and therefore act as inhibitory steroids, while pregnenolone sulphate (PREGS) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) are negative modulators of the GABA(A) receptor and positive modulators of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, therefore acting as excitatory neurosteroids. Some steroids also interact with atypical proteins, the sigma (sigma) receptors. Recent studies particularly demonstrated that the sigma1 receptor contributes effectively to their pharmacological actions. The present article will review the data demonstrating that the sigma1 receptor binds neurosteroids in physiological conditions. The physiological relevance of this interaction will be analyzed and the impact on physiopathological outcomes in memory and drug addiction will be illustrated. We will particularly highlight, first, the importance of the sigma1-receptor activation by PREGS and DHEAS which may contribute to their modulatory effect on calcium homeostasis and, second, the importance of the steroid tonus in the pharmacological development of selective sigma1 drugs.

Neuroactive steroid effects on cognitive functions with a focus on the serotonin and GABA systems

This article will review neuroactive steroid effects on serotonin and GABA systems, along with the subsequent effects on cognitive functions. Neurosteroids (such as estrogen, progesterone, and allopregnanolone) are synthesized in the central and peripheral nervous system, in addition to other tissues. They are involved in the regulation of mood and memory, in premenstrual syndrome, and mood changes related to hormone replacement therapy, as well as postnatal and major depression, anxiety disorders, and Alzheimer's disease. Estrogen and progesterone have their respective hormone receptors, whereas allopregnanolone acts via the GABA(A) receptor. The action of estrogen and progesterone can be direct genomic, indirect genomic, or non-genomic, also influencing several neurotransmitter systems, such as the serotonin and GABA systems. Estrogen alone, or in combination with antidepressant drugs affecting the serotonin system, has been related to improved mood and well being. In contrast, progesterone can have negative effects on mood and memory. Estrogen alone, or in combination with progesterone, affects the brain serotonin system differently in different parts of the brain, which can at least partly explain the opposite effects on mood of those hormones. Many of the progesterone effects in the brain are mediated by its metabolite allopregnanolone. Allopregnanolone, by changing GABA(A) receptor expression or sensitivity, is involved in premenstrual mood changes; and it also induces cognitive deficits, such as spatial-learning impairment. We have shown that the 3beta-hydroxypregnane steroid UC1011 can inhibit allopregnanolone-induced learning impairment and chloride uptake potentiation in vitro and in vivo. It would be important to find a substance that antagonizes allopregnanolone-induced adverse effects.

New insights into the role of neuroactive steroids in cognitive aging

The aim of this article is to describe neuroactive steroid research that has been focused on their physiological role in cognitive aging, an attractive new field in experimental gerontology. Neuroactive steroids have been recently proposed as biomarkers of cognitive aging, however, their specific functions have not yet been fully established. For instance, data emerging from human and animal studies suggest a complex relationship between neuroactive steroids and/or metabolites and cognitive processes during aging. Thus, a better knowledge of neuroactive steroid brain distribution and function could broaden our understanding of their physiological roles and lead to novel and more effective treatments for the management of age-related brain disorders. To this end, newly developed sensitive, specific, and accurate mass spectrometry assays may allow the quantification of neuroactive steroids in discrete brain regions and greatly contribute to unravel their role in age-related cognitive deficits.

Expression of central glucocorticoid receptors after peripheral nerve injury contributes to neuropathic pain behaviors in rats

Peripheral glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) play a significant role in the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids; however, the role of central GRs in nociceptive behaviors after peripheral nerve injury (neuropathic pain behaviors) remains unknown. Here we show that the development of neuropathic pain behaviors (thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia) induced by chronic constriction nerve injury (CCI) in rats was attenuated by either the GR antagonist RU38486 (4 = 2 > 1 = 0.5 microg) or a GR antisense oligonucleotide administered intrathecally twice daily for postoperative days 1-6. The development of thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia after CCI also was prevented in adrenalectomized rats, whereas the GR agonist dexamethasone (100 microg/kg) given subcutaneously twice daily for postoperative day 1-6 restored CCI-induced neuropathic pain behaviors in the adrenalectomized rats. Mechanistically, CCI induced a time-dependent and region-specific expression of neuronal GRs primarily within the spinal cord dorsal horn ipsilateral to nerve injury, which showed a time course parallel to that of the development of neuropathic pain behaviors. Moreover, the expression of neuronal GR after CCI was mediated in part through an elevated spinal level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and protein kinase Cgamma (PKCgamma), because intrathecal treatment with an IL-6 antiserum, a PKC inhibitor (cheryrithrine), or PKCgamma knock-out substantially reduced the expression of neuronal GRs as well as neuropathic pain behaviors after CCI. These findings indicate a central role of neuronal GRs in the mechanisms of neuropathic pain behaviors in rats and suggest a potential role for GR antagonists in clinical management of neuropathic pain.

Glia-neuron crosstalk in the neuroprotective mechanisms of sex steroid hormones

Proteins involved in the intramitochondrial trafficking of cholesterol, the first step in steroidogenesis, such as the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and the peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor (PBR), are upregulated in the nervous system after injury. Accordingly, a local increase in the levels of steroids, such as pregnenolone and progesterone, is observed following traumatic injury in the brain and spinal cord. The expression and activity of aromatase, the enzyme that synthesizes estradiol, is also increased in injured brain areas and its inhibition results in an increased neurodegeneration. These findings suggest that an increase in steroidogenesis is part of an overall mechanism used by the nervous tissue to cope with neurodegenerative conditions. Neural steroidogenesis is the result of a coordinated interaction of neurons and glia. For example, after neural injury, there is an upregulation of StAR in neurons and of PBR in microglia and astroglia. Aromatase is expressed in neurons under basal conditions and is upregulated in reactive astrocytes after injury. Some of the steroids produced by glia are neuroprotective. Progesterone and progesterone derivatives produced by Schwann cells, promote myelin formation and the remyelination and regeneration of injured nerves. In the central nervous system, the steroids produced by glia regulate synaptic function, affect anxiety, cognition, sleep and behavior, and exert neuroprotective and reparative roles. In addition, glial cells are targets for steroids and mediate some of the effects of these molecules on neurons, including the regulation of survival and regeneration.