The effects of steroid hormones are believed to be mediated by their nuclear receptors (NRs). The p160 coactivator family

including steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1)

2 and 3

has been shown to physically interact with NRs to enhance their transactivational activities. Among which SRC-1 has been predominantly localized in the central nervous system including brain and spinal cord. It is not only localized in neurons but also detectable in neuroglial cells (mainly localized in the nuclei but also detectable in the extra-nuclear components). Although the expression of SRC-1 is regulated by many steroids

it is also regulated by some non-steroidal factors such as injury

sound and light. Functionally

SRC-1 has been implied in normal function such as development and ageing

learning and memory

central regulation on reproductive behaviors

motor and food intake. Pathologically

SRC-1 may play a role in the regulation of neuropsychiatric disorders (including stress

depression

anxiety

and autism spectrum disorder)

metabolite homeostasis and obesity as well as tumorigenesis. Under most conditions

the related mechanisms are far from elucidation; although it may regulate spatial memory through Rictor/mTORC2-actin polymerization related synaptic plasticity. Several inhibitors and stimulator of SRC-1 have shown anti-cancer potentials

but whether these small molecules could be used to modulate ageing and central disorder related neuropathology remain unclear. Therefore

to elucidate when and how SRC-1 is turned on and off under different stimuli is very interesting and great challenge for neuroscientists.