Developmental programming of the female neuroendocrine system by steroids

Author(s)

Adriana Abruzzese, Giselle ; Crisosto, Nicolas ; Kempinas, Wilma De Grava ; Sotomayor-Zarate, Ramon

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Neuroendocrinology; v. 30, n. 10, p. 12-pg., 2018-10-01.

Abstract

Developmental programming refers to processes that occur during early life that may have long-term consequences, modulating adult health and disease. Complex diseases, such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease, have a high prevalence in different populations, are multifactorial, and may have a strong environmental component. The environment interacts with organisms, affecting their behaviour, morphology and physiology. This interaction may induce permanent or long-term changes, and organisms may be more susceptible to environmental factors during certain developmental stages, such as the prenatal and early postnatal periods. Several factors have been identified as responsible for inducing the reprogramming of various reproductive and nonreproductive tissues. Among them, both natural and synthetic steroids, such as endocrine disruptors, are known to have either detrimental or positive effects on organisms depending on the dose of exposure, stage of development and biological sexual background. The present review focuses on the action of steroids and endocrine disruptors as agents involved in developmental programming and on their modulation and effects on female neuroendocrine functions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/25350-1 - Effects of in utero betamethasone exposure on male rats reproductive parameters, with emphasis on sperm quality and fertility: a multigenerational approach
• Grantee: Cibele dos Santos Borges
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 14/13660-1 - Effects of in utero exposure to betamethasone on puberty installation and reproductive parameters of female Wistar rats
• Grantee: Tainá Louise Pacheco
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation