Effects of stress-like cortisol on neuronal metabolism: A magnetic resonance spectroscopy study

Background: The effect of stress hormones on cognitive function and neuronal metabolism has been extensively studied as strong evidence exists on cell damaging effects of high and extended glucocorticoid exposure. Especially the hippocampus region has been in focus of that research since its high density of glucocorticoid receptors and its pivotal role in memory function. MR-spectroscopy makes in-vivo measurements in anatomically specific regions possible by placing a voxel (˜10×10×10mm3) in the region of interest. It is a unique way to investigate neuronal cell integrity and energy metabolism by measuring the c…