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Corticosteroid receptor mediated effects on mood in humans
W Plihal1, R Krug, R Pietrowsky
1University of Bamberg, Germany. werner.plihal@ppp.uni.bamberg.de
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Dexamethasone (DEX) initially boosted mood but later caused negative feelings. Cortisol (CORT) counteracted these effects, suggesting different receptor pathways influence mood states.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Glucocorticoids like dexamethasone (DEX) and cortisol (CORT) play crucial roles in stress response and mood regulation.
- DEX primarily targets glucocorticoid receptors (GR), while CORT targets both GR and mineralocorticoid receptors (MR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate the mood effects of DEX and CORT in healthy men.
- To investigate the distinct roles of GR and MR activation in mood modulation.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, cross-over study involving ten healthy male participants.
- Subchronic administration of DEX (4 mg/day) or placebo for 7 days.
- Nocturnal infusion of CORT (10 mg/h) or placebo on days 5 and 7 of each period.
- Mood assessment using an adjective checklist (Eigenschaftswoerterliste).
Main Results:
- Acute DEX administration enhanced activation, concentration, and arousal.
- Prolonged DEX treatment led to decreased energizing effects but increased emotional arousability and negative feelings.
- CORT co-administration during DEX treatment counteracted negative feelings and improved "high spirits".
- Sole CORT administration also improved "high spirits" and enhanced activation/concentration.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activation mediates energizing effects and, with prolonged exposure, dysphoric mood.
- Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation appears to promote euphoric mood states.
- Distinct receptor pathways differentially influence mood and emotional responses.