The walnut tree as a source of progesterone for reproductive control in goats.

Intravaginal sponges impregnated with the progesterone (P4) analogue fluorogestone acetate (FGA) induce synchronous oestrous behaviour and normal ovulatory cycle in goats. To explore alternatives using natural P4 from plants, we developed a method of ethanolic extraction and a specific enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to measure P4 in the different parts of the walnut tree Juglans regia. We found a very high concentration of P4, specifically in the leaves of the three most common French varieties (∼100 mg/kg of DM) but not in flowers, fruits, septa, husk, oil or cake.

The translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) ligand etifoxine in an animal model of anxiety: line- and sex-dependent effects on emotionality, stress reactivity, spine density, oxytocin receptors, steroids, and microbiome composition.

The treatment of stress-related disorders such as anxiety and depression is still challenging. One potential therapeutical option are neurosteroids. Their synthesis is promoted by ligands of the mitochondrial translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO).

Chronic administration of XBD173 ameliorates cognitive deficits and neuropathology via 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ). It affects cognition and leads to memory impairment. The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO) plays an essential role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and has been implicated in several neuronal disorders or neuronal injuries.

Disease stage-dependent changes in brain levels and neuroprotective effects of neuroactive steroids in Parkinson's disease.

Neuroactive steroids are known neuroprotective agents and neurotransmitter regulators. We previously found that expression of the enzymes synthesizing 5α-dihydroprogesterone (5α-DHP), allopregnanolone (ALLO), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were reduced in the substantia nigra (SN) of Parkinson's Disease (PD) brain. Here, concentrations of a comprehensive panel of steroids were measured in human post-mortem brains of PD patients and controls.