The field of neuroprotection and repair has long been interested in the potential therapeutic effects of steroids such as progesterone, allopregnanolone, and their derivatives. Despite decades of research, the translation of promising basic research findings into clinical applications remains challenging, particularly in the treatment of stroke, neurodegenerative disorders, and traumatic brain injury. Recent studies have shed light on the mechanisms by which these neurosteroids can influence the genome, proteome, and cellular respiration, leading to reduced inflammation and enhanced functional recovery. However, a significant gap persists in understanding how sex differences and age impact these outcomes, necessitating their consideration in both human and animal studies. Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing the field and improving clinical outcomes.
This research topic aims to consolidate the latest original research, reviews, opinions, and perspectives on neurosteroids, with a focus on translating basic research into clinical practice. The primary objective is to explore the role of neurosteroids in the context of traumatic brain injury, stroke, and neurodegeneration, while also stimulating interest and generating new findings related to neuroprotection and repair of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Given the limited progress in developing safe and effective treatments for these conditions, this research topic seeks to contribute to the advancement of therapeutic strategies.
To gather further insights in the translation of neurosteroid research into clinical practice, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- How progestagens affect women who are naturally cycling, pregnant, menopausal, on hormone replacement therapy or using hormonal contraceptive
- The effects of progestogens, including progesterone and synthetic progestins on the brain, mood, stress, cognition, neuroprotection and remyelination
- Sex differences, aging, and other treatment variables in response to progesterone and allopregnanolone in health and disease
- Latest developments in the use of progesterone, allopregnanolone, and synthetic progestins and progesterone receptor modulators in the treatment of CNS and peripheral injuries
- Neurosteroids as potential treatments for age-related degenerative disorders: basic and translational research
- How current research can improve the success rate of clinical trials in neuroprotection and repair
Keywords: Neuroprotection, Brain, spinal cord, traumatic brain injury, Stroke, optic nerve damage, Alzheimer’s disease, progesterone, allopregnanolone, Nestorone, recovery of function, neurosteroids
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
