What is the Origin of Translocator Protein TSPO?

The protein was initially identified due to its affinity for benzodiazepine drugs outside of the central nervous system, hence its former name. Its current nomenclature reflects its functional role as a translocator protein involved in the movement of molecules across the mitochondrial membrane. In endocrinology, its significance was established with the discovery of its crucial role in steroidogenesis across the adrenal glands, gonads, and placenta.

What is the Mechanism of Translocator Protein TSPO?

TSPO facilitates the transport of cholesterol from the outer to the inner mitochondrial membrane, where the cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, CYP11A1, initiates the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone, the precursor for all steroid hormones. The activity of TSPO is tightly regulated by intracellular signaling pathways, including those activated by pituitary trophic hormones. Therefore, modulating TSPO activity represents a critical point for controlling the systemic production of cortisol, testosterone, and estrogen.

Translocator Protein TSPO

Meaning

Translocator Protein TSPO, formerly known as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor, is a highly conserved, 18-kDa protein predominantly located on the outer mitochondrial membrane of various cells, particularly in steroidogenic tissues, immune cells, and the brain. Clinically, TSPO is recognized as a key regulatory component in the initial, rate-limiting step of steroid hormone synthesis, specifically the transport of cholesterol into the inner mitochondrial membrane. Its expression is often upregulated in states of inflammation, making it a valuable biomarker for neuroinflammation and tissue damage.

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Lifestyle choices can directly supply the building blocks and regulate the stress signals that govern your brain's natural production of mood-modulating neurosteroids.

∞ Pregnenolone
∞ Neurosteroidogenesis
∞ Neurosteroid Production