Week 8: Steroid Hormone Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Theme of the week: Steroid Hormones
• Split into three sessions to avoid long periods without breaks.
• Sessions: Steroid hormones, hormones, HPA axis.
• Upcoming: Case Study Week 2 focusing on detox hormones and nervous system.

Overview of Hormones

• Hormones are not exclusive to women; they are significant to both genders.
• Previous estrogen report has evolved to include other steroid hormones and the HPA axis.
• Connections between different hormone pathways and other body systems, like detox and nervous systems.

Hormones Report

• Pathways include genes from previous reports (e.g., CYPs, COMT, detox pathways).
• Focus on steroid hormones, the estrogen life cycle, and the HPA axis.
• Pathway summaries and detailed results are crucial for understanding client-specific hormone dynamics.
• Guides in reports provide structured information and should be read completely.

Session 1: Steroid Hormones

Pathway Overview

• Sections: Progesterone, Cortisol/Cortisone, Androgens.
• Genes in hormone report relate to synthesis and regulation of these hormones.

Progesterone Pathways

• Progesterone: Known as female sex hormone, important in pregnancy, but also present in men.
• Conversion path: Progesterone -> 5 alpha DHP -> Alopregnanolone (neurosteroid with antidepressant, anti-anxiety effects).

Key Genes and Factors

• 5 Alpha Reductase: Converts progesterone to 5 alpha DHP. Inhibitors: Finasteride, green tea.
• ACR1C4/3A HSD: Converts 5 alpha DHP to Alopregnanolone. Activators include omega-3s, evening primrose oil.

Cortisol Pathway

• Progesterone and pregnenolone can convert to cortisol.
• Gene 17A1: Upregulation could lead to more cortisol production, influenced by stress, alcohol.
• 11B-HSD: Converts cortisone to cortisol. Influenced by stress and can be modulated with green tea or licorice.

Androgen Pathway

• Testosterone to DHT: 5 Alpha Reductase also converts testosterone to a more potent androgen DHT.
• Neurosteroids: Both Alopregnanolone and Adiol have GABAergic effects, influencing mood.
• Aromatase (CYP19A1): Converts testosterone to estrogens; important balance for overall hormone health.

Conclusion

• Understanding of steroid hormone pathways allows fine-tuning for client symptoms.
• Importance of genetic and environmental factors in determining hormone dynamics.
• Stress management and dietary support can modulate hormone pathways.

• End of session 1; next session begins with estrogen pathway discussion.