Adrenocortical steroid hormones, electrolytes, and the disposition of the catecholamines with particular reference to depressive states

Abstract

Adrenocortical steroid hormones, electrolytes, and catecholamines have each been suggested as having a role in the psychobiology of the affective disorders. In this paper some of the literature relevant to interactions between these systems has been reviewed and the following noted. 1. 1.|There is much evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies indicating that the function of the pituitary-adrenal axis is intimately involved with the synthesis, degradation, and transport of the catecholamines. More specifically, it has been clearly demonstrated that hypophysectomy or adrenalectomy is associated with an increase in the synthesis of catecholamines in tissues other than brain. This increment in synthesis can be reversed by the appropriate replacement treatment. While the effects of alterations of the pituitary-adrenal axis on brain catecholamines have been less intensively studied, the available data indicates that hydrocortisone is involved in NE transport and that adrenalectomy but not hypophysectomy increases the turnover of brain NE. 2. 2.|Deviations from optimal concentrations of Na + and K + or the inhibition of the Mg ++ dependent, Na + - K + activated ATPase result in a decreased uptake of NE, possibly an increased efflux, and an increased rate of synthesis of NE in brain slices. Similar results have been found with a variety of different tissue preparations. Other types of experimental alterations of the ionic environment also are associated with changes in the disposition and synthesis of catecholamines. 3. 3.|Given the demonstrated relationships between the adrenal corticosteroids and catecholamine synthesis, adrenocortical steroids and salt metabolism, and salt concentrations and catecholamine transport and synthesis, a suggested sequence of events whereby the adrenocortical steroid hormones may regulate catecholamine synthesis is presented. 4. 4.|The relevance of the proposed relationship between the adrenocortical steroids, electrolytes, and NE synthesis to human depressive states is discussed.