On the age-specific neurochemical and endocrine biomarkers of temperament traits in adolescents

Abstract

• Hormones along with neurotransmitters and opioid receptors determine temperament traits. • Reproductive steroids exert the maximum influence on the formation of adolescent behavior. • Testosterone positively correlated with extraversion and dominance, negatively with empathy. • Estrogen and testosterone deficiency leads to the formation of dysthymia and depressive states. • Steroid hormones and iodothyronines are involved in the formation of personality traits. Neurochemical biomarkers of temperament traits might differ in their nature and impact on behavior in different age groups. This review focuses on the role of specific neurochemical and endocrine systems (thyroid hormones, sex hormones, and corticosteroids) in the regulation of behavior and their contribution to the temperament traits of adolescents. The review highlights the transient and distinct roles of hormones in behavioral regulation and their likely interactions with other neurochemical systems. Discussions of taxonomies of bio-behavioral consistent patterns (temperament traits in healthy individuals and symptoms of psychiatric disorders) should therefore include consideration of age differences.