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Steroid hormone action in the brain: cross-talk between signalling pathways
S K Mani1, W Portillo, A Reyna
1Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA. smani@bcm.tmc.edu
Journal of Neuroendocrinology
|February 4, 2009
Summary
Ovarian steroid hormones like oestradiol and progesterone influence brain function. Novel findings reveal neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, can also activate steroid receptors, impacting behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Molecular Neuroscience
- Behavioral Neuroscience
Background:
- Ovarian steroid hormones (oestradiol, progesterone) are known to modulate neuroendocrine functions, impacting physiology and behavior.
- Classical models propose steroid hormone action occurs via intracellular receptors acting as ligand-dependent transcription factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ligand-independent activation of intracellular steroid receptors.
- To explore the cross-talk between membrane-initiated and intracellular signaling pathways in mediating hormone-dependent behavior.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying signal convergence with steroid receptors at the genomic level.
Main Methods:
- Investigated ligand-independent activation of steroid receptors.
- Examined the role of dopamine in altering neuronal phosphatase and kinase equilibrium.
- Analyzed cross-talk between membrane-initiated and intracellular signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Intracellular steroid receptors can be activated in a ligand-independent manner by dopamine.
- Dopamine alters the balance between neuronal phosphatases and kinases.
- Significant cross-talk exists between membrane-initiated and intracellular signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- Neurotransmitter modulation of steroid receptor activity provides a novel mechanism for regulating brain function and behavior.
- Cross-talk between signaling pathways is crucial for mediating complex hormone-dependent behaviors.
- Understanding these molecular mechanisms offers insights into the neurobiology of behavior.
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