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Possible role of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone in human development and psychopathology
I M Goodyer1, R J Park, C M Netherton
1Developmental Psychiatry Section, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK.
Insights
Adrenal hormones like cortisol and DHEA are crucial for infant development. Imbalances in these steroids can lead to behavioral issues and psychopathology in youth.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Developmental psychology
Background:
- Adrenal hormone secretion patterns significantly shift during infancy.
- Altered basal hormone levels are linked to psychological dysfunction and psychopathology in young individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine developmental changes in cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) secretion.
- To investigate the role of these hormones in the psychopathology of young people.
- To understand the mechanisms of steroid action within the brain.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review.
- Focus on human developmental, psychiatric, and neuroscientific research.
Main Results:
- Brain sensitivity to cortisol changes with development, potentially impairing mental and behavioral functions after excess exposure.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and gonadal steroids may influence cortisol's effects.
- Steroid hormones play a role in shaping early behavioral development.
Conclusions:
- Steroid hormones are integral to the development of behavioral functions.
- These hormones can act as significant risk factors for the emergence of psychopathology.
Background:
The characteristics of adrenal hormone secretion change markedly during infancy. Disturbances in basal levels may precipitate psychological dysfunction and are associated with psychopathology in young people.
Aims:
To relate three aspects of behavioural endocrinology: developmental changes in cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the role of these hormones in the psychopathology of young people, and the action of these steroids in the brain.
Method:
A selective review from the human developmental, psychiatric and neurosciences literature.
Results:
There are developmentally mediated changes in brain sensitivity following excess exposure to cortisol. This may result in impairments of mental and behavioural function. DHEA and gonadal steroids may modulate the actions of cortisol.
Conclusions:
Steroid hormones contribute to shaping behavioural function during early development and act as risk factors for psychopathology.