PsychologyAugust 29, 2026

neurosteroid

NYUR-oh-steer-oyd

Definition

A class of steroid hormones that are synthesized in the brain and nervous system and influence neural function.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau of 'neuro-' (derived from the Greek 'neuron' for nerve) and 'steroid' (derived from the Greek 'stereos' meaning solid, combined with the chemical suffix '-oid'). It identifies hormones that function specifically within the nervous system.

In the news

The article discusses a specific neurosteroid found in breast milk, allopregnanolone, and its potential role in buffering the effects of maternal stress on an infant's emotional development.

Studies reveal how instability may shape infant attention, brain activity and emotional regulation

Read the full article ↗

Medical Xpress

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