Glucocorticoid

Glucocorticoids are a class of corticosteroids, which are a class of steroid hormones. Glucocorticoids are corticosteroids that bind to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which is present in almost every vertebrate animal cell.

Function

The name glucocorticoid (glucose + cortex + steroid) is composed from its role in regulation of glucose metabolism, synthesis in the adrenal cortex, and its steroidal structure (see structure-activity relationship). A less common synonym is glucocorticosteroid.

Effects

Glucocorticoids are part of the feedback mechanism in the immune system, which reduces certain aspects of immune function, such as reduction of inflammation. They are therefore used in medicine to treat diseases caused by an overactive immune system, such as allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and sepsis. Glucocorticoids have many diverse (pleiotropic) effects, including potentially harmful side effects, and as a result are rarely sold over the counter. They also interfere with some of the abnormal mechanisms in cancer cells, so they are used in high doses to treat cancer.

Pharmacology

Glucocorticoids may be used in low doses in adrenal insufficiency. In much higher doses, their most frequent use is in suppressing inflammation and the immune system, including autoimmune diseases and organ transplantation.

See also

• Corticosteroid
• Steroid hormones
• Adrenal cortex
• Immune system
• Inflammation
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Autoimmune diseases
• Sepsis
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Organ transplantation

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