Skip to main content

Pregnenolone Neural Protection

Meaning

Pregnenolone neural protection describes the neurobiological phenomenon where the steroid hormone pregnenolone, or its sulfated ester (pregnenolone sulfate), acts as a potent neurosteroid to actively shield neurons from various forms of damage, including excitotoxicity, chronic oxidative stress, and inflammation. This protective effect is a crucial non-endocrine function of this precursor hormone, which is synthesized de novo within the brain by both glial cells and neurons. Clinical interest lies in its potential therapeutic application to enhance cognitive resilience and mitigate the progression of neurodegenerative conditions by strengthening the intrinsic defense mechanisms of the central nervous system. This neurosteroid role is distinct from its function as a precursor in the systemic steroidogenesis pathway.