Pilot feasibility study: role of GABAergic neuroactive steroids in risk for prenatal and postpartum PTSD and depression
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Abstract
There is a need to investigate predictors of pregnancy complications that arise from pregnancy-related neuropathophysiological processes. Allopregnanolone and pregnanolone, together termed ALLO, are positive modulators of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor-mediated inhibitory conductance. These neuroactive GABAergic steroids are important in the neuropathophysiological expression of mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and postpartum depression (PPD). Prior studies demonstrate lower ALLO levels and synthesis capacity in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma among individuals with PTSD. This pilot study was aimed at determining the feasibility of investigating the ALLO levels and synthesis capacity in pregnancy and the postpartum in order to understand whether ALLO dysregulation may contribute to pregnancy related complications. The study thus focused on the feasibility of recruiting pregnant women with a scheduled cesarean section, assessment of exposure to stressors and mental health symptoms, safety of obtaining CSF and blood, and the measurement of neurosteroids in the ALLO synthesis pathway between individuals with and without PTSD and postpartum depression. The study methods were found to be feasible and study procedures were effectively completed by researchers. Results from the study will be used to design and calculate effect sizes to adequately power a larger fully funded study to address the study aims.
Description
2024