Glucocorticoids endocrine function

Adrenal gland A triangle-shaped organ positioned at the top of the kidney which functions as a double endocrine gland . The larger outer adrenal cortex secretes three classes of steroid hormones glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol), minerlocorticoids (aldosterone) and small amounts of sex steroids (e.g., testosterone). The inner adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines (e.g., adrenaline and noradrenaline). 

To further evaluate the role of CRH in both neuroendocrine and behavioral functions, a mammalian model of CRH deficiency has been generated by targeted mutation in embryonic stem cells (Mugha et al. 1995). CRH-deficient mice reveal a fetal glucocorticoid requirement for lung maturation. Postnatally, they display marked glucocorticoid deficiency and an impaired endocrine response to stress (Jacobson et al. 2000 Mugha et al. 1995). 

The most important clinical application of glucocorticoids and their semisynthetic analogs is their anti-inflammatory activity, discovered in 1949 by Hench and co-workers. The profound anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids arise from the combined effects of these steroids on both the cellular and molecular mediators of inflammation these effects are separate from the metabolic effects described above and further indication of the widespread diversity of macromolecules to which steroids can bind. Glucocorticoids suppress inflammation at the cellular level by downregulating the concentration, distribution, and function of leukocytes (white blood cells) that profoundly influence inflammation and response to infection within the body (In this way, steroids help to mediate the overlap between the endocrine systems [chapter 5] and the immune systems [chapter 6]). Glucocorticoids also suppress inflammation at the molecule level by suppressing inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and other molecular mediators of inflammation. 

Agents that inhibit steps in the steroidogenic pathway and thus alter the biosynthesis of adrenocortical steroids are discussed, as are synthetic steroids that inhibit glucocorticoid action. The effects of corticosteroids are numerous and widespread, and include alterations in carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance and preservation of normal function of the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the kidney, skeletal muscle, the endocrine system, and the nervous system. 

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