Glycyrrhizic acid, structure

The structure of cortisol differs from that of cortisone in that the C-ll hydroxyl group is replaced by a carbonyl group. Glycyrrhizic acid inhibits 1 l-/5-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which prevents the deactivation of cortisol. Cortisone is administered to Addison s disease patients because it is converted to cortisol by 1 l-/5-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase a reversible enzyme. 

O 13-60%. From glycyrrhizic acid, (q.v.). Structure Ruzicka et aL, Heir. Chirn, Acta 26, 2143, 2278 (1943). Stereochemistry Beaton, Spring, J. Chem. Sec. 1955, 3126. Prepn from shredded licorice root Mer, Am. Perfum. Aro-mat. 74(6), 39 (1959). Manuf Brit. pat. 833,184 (I960 to Carlo Erba). Identity with uralenic acid Belous et al, Zh. Obshch. fChim. 35, 401 (1965). Metabolism Parke et al, J. Pharm. Pharmacol 15, 500 (1963). Mechanism of action Hdbing, Berntsen, Pharm. WeekbL 100, 1438 (1965). 

Glycyrrhizic acid and structurally related saponins possess a sweet taste and flavor-potentiating characteristics and have been employed... 

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