Skip to main content

Neurosteroidogenesis

Meaning

Neurosteroidogenesis is the highly specialized biochemical process of synthesizing steroid hormones de novo within the central and peripheral nervous systems, operating independently of the classical endocrine glands like the adrenals and gonads. These locally produced neurosteroids, such as allopregnanolone and DHEA, rapidly and powerfully modulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission. This localized production is critical for regulating mood, stress response, memory consolidation, and providing neuroprotection.