Neurosteroid interactions with synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAa receptors: regulation of subunit plasticity phasic and tonic inhibition and neuronal network excitability

摘要

RationaleNeurosteroids are steroids synthesized within the brain with rapid effects on neuronal excitability. Allopregnanolone, allotetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone, and androstanediol are three widely explored prototype endogenous neurosteroids. They have very different targets and functions compared to conventional steroid hormones. Neuronal GABAa receptors are one of the prime molecular targets of neurosteroids.