Abstract
Several reviews have so far pointed out on the relevant physiological and pharmacological role exerted by neuroactive steroids in the central nervous system. In the present review we summarize observations indicating that synthesis and metabolism of neuroactive steroids also occur in the peripheral nerves. Interestingly, peripheral nervous system is also a target of their action. Indeed, as here reported neuroactive steroids are physiological regulators of peripheral nerve functions and they may also represent interesting therapeutic tools for different types of peripheral neuropathy.
Highlights
Recent studies have shown that peripheral nerves synthesize and metabolize neuroactive steroids
In the present review we summarize observations indicating that synthesis and metabolism of neuroactive steroids occur in the peripheral nerves
Peripheral neuropathy may be inherited, such as those referred to Charcot– Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease including demyelinating and axonal variants, or acquired, like for instance those occurring during aging process, after physical injury, in systemic or metabolic disorders, in infections and autoimmune disorders (e.g., AIDS, hepatitis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, Lyme disease, rheumatoid arthritis, leprosy, sarcoidosis, syphilis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.), after exposure to toxic compounds and during drug treatment
Summary
Roberto Cosimo Melcangi 1*, Silvia Giatti 1, Marzia Pesaresi 1, Donato Calabrese, Nico Mitro, Donatella Caruso and Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura. Reviewed by: Mihail Gr. Coculescu, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, Romania Michael Schumacher, INSERM, France. Several reviews have so far pointed out on the relevant physiological and pharmacological role exerted by neuroactive steroids in the central nervous system. In the present review we summarize observations indicating that synthesis and metabolism of neuroactive steroids occur in the peripheral nerves. Peripheral nervous system is a target of their action. As here reported neuroactive steroids are physiological regulators of peripheral nerve functions and they may represent interesting therapeutic tools for different types of peripheral neuropathy
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