Possible role of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone in human development and psychopathology

Background The characteristics of adrenal hormone secretion change markedly during infancy Disturbances in basal levels may precipitate psychological dysfunction and are associated with psychopathology in young people. Aims To relate three aspects of behavioural endocrinology: developmental ch anges in cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the role of these horm ones in the psychopathology of young people, and the action of these steroi ds in the brain. Method A selective review from the human developmental, psychiatric and neu rosciences literature. Results There are developmentally mediated changes in brain sensitivity fol lowing excess exposure to cortisol. This may result in impairments of menta l and behavioural function. DHEA and gonadal steroids may modulate the acti ons of cortisol. Conclusions Steroid hormones contribute to shaping behavioural function dur ing early development and act as risk factors for psychopathology. Declaration of interest Supported by the Wellcome Trust, the Medical Resear ch Council and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.