The function of NMDARs is regulated by a number of endogenous allosteric modulators, including membrane cholesterol and its metabolites, and endogenous neurosteroids.  Although the physiological role of NMDAR-modulating sterols and steroids is not well understood, they may influence brain development and cognitive function.

We have described a number of synthetic neurosteroid analogues with either inhibitory or potentiating effects on NMDARs. Thanks to this research, neurosteroid NMDAR modulators may become a new class of compounds in the pharmacological toolbox for treating patients with NMDAR dysfunction.