DHEA and the Brain reviews a range of existing studies regarding DHEA administration to animals and humans. Chapter authors evaluate DHEA metabolism in tissues and organs, explore DHEA effects in the liver that may be of importance to the brain, and discuss recent findings regarding how DHEA is made in the brain. New perspectives about the neuroprotective effects of DHEA are presented, as well as insight related to DHEA metabolism in the brain. A number of health benefits have been associated with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), including anti-cancer, anti-osteoporosis, anti-atherosclerosis, anti-diabetes, immuno-stimulating, and memory-enhancing effects. This has prompted millions of people to take this hormone as a daily nutritional supplement. However, there is some concern that prolonged self-administration may result in future health problems, as well as unease about potential side effects due to the production of steroid derivatives in the tissues. Featuring an esteemed panel of contributors, this volume provides an authoritative overview of the research concerning DHEA and the brain. It presents a variety of innovative approaches and ideas for future investigations into the physiological actions of this hormone.

Contents:
1. The Brain, a Putative Source and Target of DHEA 2. DHEA Metabolites During the Life Span 3. Postulated Roles of DHEA in the Decline of Neural Function With Age 3. Postulated Roles of DHEA in the Decline of Neural Function With Age 4. DHEA: Hormone of Youth and Resilience - Still a Maverick 5. DHEA Effects on Liver 6. DHEA and Brain Development 7. DHEA Metabolism in the Brain: Production and Effects of the 7a-hydroxylated Derivative 8. DHEA: Biosynthesis, Regulation and Function in the Central Nervous System 9. Cross-talk Between DHEA and Neuropeptides 10. DHEA Effects on Human behaviour and Psychiatric Illness 11. Effects of DHEA on Diabetes Mellitus 12. The Clinician's View of DHEA: An Overview 13. DHEA Replacement and Cognition in Healthy Elderly Humans