Pregnenolone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the body's endocrine system. Often referred to as the "mother of all hormones," pregnenolone is a precursor to many other hormones, including cortisol, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone.
1. Pregnenolone Synthesis and Function:
Pregnenolone is synthesized in the body from cholesterol, primarily in the adrenal glands, liver, skin, and brain. Its production occurs through a series of enzymatic reactions, with the help of enzymes such as cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1).
Pregnenolone acts as a precursor to various hormones involved in regulating a wide range of physiological functions, including stress response, reproductive health, cognitive function, mood regulation, and immune system modulation.
2. Pregnenolone Benefits:
- Cognitive Enhancement: Pregnenolone has been studied for its potential cognitive-enhancing properties. Research suggests that it may support memory, focus, and overall cognitive function by interacting with neurotransmitter systems and neuroprotective mechanisms.
- Stress Response and Mood Regulation: Pregnenolone has been investigated for its role in managing stress and mood disorders. It acts as a positive modulator of the GABA receptors, which are involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses.
- Hormone Balance: Pregnenolone plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. It can serve as a precursor to other hormones, supporting their production and regulation.
3. Clinical Applications:
- Cognitive Decline and Neurodegenerative Disorders: Pregnenolone supplementation has shown promise in supporting cognitive function in individuals with age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. It may enhance memory, attention, and overall cognitive performance.
- Mood Disorders: Some studies suggest that pregnenolone supplementation may have a positive impact on mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It may help regulate mood, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being.
4. Safety and Considerations:
While pregnenolone is considered safe for most individuals when used appropriately, it's important to note that individual responses may vary. As with any hormone, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting pregnenolone supplementation, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. It can readily convert to estrogen and cortisol, therefore should not be used by people with history of hormone receptive cancer. It can also cause jitteriness in the presence of poor glucose regulation. This is normally taken in the morning and dosing varies from 5mg to 25mg.
Angeluca Clark PA-C, IFMCP is a certified functional medicine practitioner in Texas who can help assess if you could benefit from this hormone supplementation.
(254) 386-8149
References:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2018). Hormone Health Network: Pregnenolone. Retrieved from https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/pregnenolone
2. Vallée, M., Mayo, W., Le Moal, M., & Piazza, P. V. (2001). Pregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and their sulfate esters modulate learning and memory in rodents. Brain Research Reviews, 37(1-3), 301-312.
3. Marx, C. E., Bradford, D. W., Hamer, R. M., Naylor, J. C., Allen, T. B., Lieberman, J. A., & Sullivan, K. L. (2011). Pregnenolone as a novel therapeutic candidate in schizophrenia: emerging preclinical and clinical evidence. Neuroscience, 191, 78-90.
4. Ritsner, M. S., & Strous, R. D. (2010). Neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia are associated with alterations in
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