Abstract:

Earlier we have discribed the role of glucocorticoids in aging and age-related diseases. In present paper the proposal was analysed for possible counteraction of glucocorticoid ontogenetic influence by melatonin and neuroactive steroids. At first, the data are discussed on antistress or antiglucocorticoid actions of these hormones. Thereafter, the evidence is evaluated for contributions of melatonin and neuroactive steroids to ontogenetic bioregulation, especially in aging. It is concluded that ontogenetic approach may be of great value for estimating the physiopathologic role of hormonal interactions. However, due to complexity of such interactions, the employment of systems biology and medicine will be urgently needed in future studies.

Keywords: melatonin, neuroactive steroids, glucocorticoids, ontogeny