Plastic neuronal changes in GABAA receptor gene expression induced by progesterone metabolites: In vitro molecular and functional studies

The data described in this manuscript are in agreement with the notion that fluctuations in the concentrations of progesterone and its metabolite allopregnanolone play a major role in the temporal pattern of expression of various subunits of the GABAA receptor. Thus, rapid and long-lasting increases or decreases in the concentrations of these steroid derivatives observed in physiological and patho-physiological conditions, or induced by pharmacological treatments, might elicit selective changes in GABAA receptor gene expression and function in specific neuronal populations. Given both the importance of GABAA receptors in the regulation of neuronal excitability and the large fluctuations in the plasma and brain concentrations of neuroactive steroids associated with physiological conditions and the response to environmental stimuli, these compounds are likely among the most relevant endogenous modulators that could affect emotional and affective behaviors.