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The brain as a target for adrenocortical steroids: cognitive implications
E Martignoni1, A Costa, E Sinforiani
1Department of Neurology III, Institute C. Mondino, University of Pavia, Italy.
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|August 1, 1992
Summary
High glucocorticoid levels, linked to brain-adrenal axis hyperactivity, may cause cognitive decline in conditions like depression and Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Neuropsychology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- A reciprocal relationship exists between the brain and glucocorticoid hormones.
- The brain regulates adrenocortical function via hypothalamic corticotrophin releasing hormone-41 (CRH-41).
- Glucocorticoids act on hippocampal receptors, mediating negative feedback.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the link between excessive glucocorticoid levels and cognitive impairment.
- To investigate the shared features of major depression, Cushing's disease, and Alzheimer's disease regarding hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivity and cognitive decline.
- To highlight the importance of developing pharmacological strategies to mitigate glucocorticoid-associated brain damage.
Main Methods:
- Review of established knowledge on brain-glucocorticoid interactions.
- Analysis of clinical features of major depression, Cushing's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
- Hypothesizing the role of glucocorticoids in neuropsychological symptoms.
Main Results:
- Excessive or long-lasting plasma glucocorticoid levels are implicated in cognitive impairment.
- Major depression, Cushing's disease, and Alzheimer's disease exhibit hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivity and cognitive decline.
- Neuropsychological symptoms in these disorders align with the hypothesis of glucocorticoid-induced brain damage.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoid excess may contribute to brain damage and cognitive deficits.
- Pharmacological interventions are crucial to prevent or reduce the adverse effects of hypercortisolemia on brain function.
- Understanding these mechanisms is vital for treating related neurological and psychiatric disorders.