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Sensorimotor Development in Rat Neonates Exposed to 17-α-Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate: A Progestin Used in Obstetrics
Paige L Graney1, Evelyn L Sarno1,2, Jessie E Miller1,3
1Department of Psychology and Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, Albany, New York, USA.
Neuroendocrinology
|May 21, 2025
Summary
Developmental exposure to 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) disrupted sensorimotor development in rats. This may impact brain development and sensitivity to progestins, warranting further clinical investigation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) is used to prevent preterm birth.
- Potential long-term effects of 17-OHPC on child neural and behavioral development are unknown.
- Progesterone receptor (PR) is present in the developing rat cortex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that developmental 17-OHPC exposure alters sensorimotor development.
- To investigate the impact of 17-OHPC on the developing brain.
Main Methods:
- Neonatal rats were administered 17-OHPC from birth to postnatal day 11.
- Sensorimotor behaviors were observed.
- PR was quantified in the cortex at postnatal day 11.
Main Results:
- 17-OHPC exposure disrupted sensorimotor development indicators.
- Gross motor function was not affected.
- 17-OHPC-exposed rats showed significantly fewer PR-immunoreactive nuclei in the somatosensory cortex.
Conclusions:
- Developmental 17-OHPC exposure may impact sensorimotor development.
- Cortical sensitivity to progestins might be altered.
- Further research is needed on the clinical implications of 17-OHPC during pregnancy.
