Progesterone: Synthesis, Metabolism, Mechanism of Action, and Effects in the Nervous System

Publisher Summary This chapter reveals that the role of progesterone (PROG) in the nervous system is too narrow. Over the past years, a very complex picture has emerged concerning the synthesis and actions of PROG, and it has become apparent that this steroid can influence most nervous functions. PROG is an important female sex hormone—in concert with estradiol; it regulates the functions of reproductive organs, sexual behavior, and the release of gonadotropins. PROG is also well known as a hormone necessary for the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy. First provided by the mother's corpus luteum, PROG is produced by the placenta as pregnancy progresses. Although the ovaries and placenta are the main sources of circulating PROG, the adrenal glands also make a significant contribution. Secretion of PROG by the adrenal glands is controlled by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and is thus sensitive to stress.