DHEA in Prenatal and Postnatal Life: Implications for Brain and Behavior

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neuroendocrinology
• Steroidogenesis

Background:

• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEAS are major adrenal C19 steroids.
• Their synthesis exhibits distinct patterns, including a prepubertal surge (adrenarche) in humans and primates.
• The physiological roles and regulatory mechanisms of DHEA/DHEAS remain incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review historical and current research on DHEA and DHEAS.
• To investigate the neuroactive properties and brain synthesis of DHEA.
• To explore the importance of DHEA for brain development, maturation, and aging.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature over 50+ years.
• Analysis of DHEA/DHEAS synthesis patterns in humans and primates.
• Exploration of animal models for adrenarche and adrenopause research.
• Examination of DHEA's neuroactivity and brain synthesis.

Main Results:

• DHEA and DHEAS are neuroactive steroids affecting neurotransmitter receptors.
• DHEA is synthesized in various brain regions, with ontogenic changes.
• The relationship between adrenal and brain DHEA synthesis is unclear.

Conclusions:

• Significant knowledge gaps persist regarding DHEA/DHEAS physiological roles and synthesis regulation.
• Further research, including animal models, is needed to elucidate these aspects.
• DHEA likely plays a crucial role in brain development, function, and aging.