Glucocorticoid receptor

The glucocorticoid receptor is a protein that binds hormones such as cortisol and changes gene activity in target cells. It can act in the cytoplasm and nucleus, regulating transcription directly and through other proteins.

Cortisol: Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates metabolism, immune activity, and stress responses. It is the principal endogenous glucocorticoid that activates this receptor.
Glucocorticoid: A glucocorticoid is a steroid hormone or drug that binds glucocorticoid receptors and influences metabolism and immune responses. The receptor is the main molecular target through which this hormone class acts.
Steroid hormone: A steroid hormone is a signaling molecule synthesized from cholesterol that can cross cell membranes and bind intracellular receptors. Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones, enabling them to reach the receptor inside target cells.
Mineralocorticoid receptor: The mineralocorticoid receptor is a steroid hormone receptor activated principally by aldosterone and involved in salt and water balance. It is a closely related receptor that shares cortisol as a ligand but has distinct physiological roles.
Nuclear receptor: A nuclear receptor is a protein that binds small molecules and regulates gene expression, often by binding DNA. The glucocorticoid receptor belongs to this ligand-regulated transcription-factor family.
Prednisone: Prednisone is a synthetic glucocorticoid drug converted in the body to the active drug prednisolone. Its therapeutic and adverse effects largely follow activation of glucocorticoid receptors.
Ligand-binding domain: A ligand-binding domain is a protein region that recognizes and binds a particular molecule. This domain binds glucocorticoids and helps determine the receptor's activated shape.
Progesterone receptor: The progesterone receptor is a nuclear receptor activated by progesterone that regulates reproductive and other processes. Its related structure illustrates how steroid receptors recognize different hormones and regulate distinct genes.
Heat shock protein 90: Heat shock protein 90 is a molecular chaperone that helps proteins fold, remain stable, and function. It helps maintain the unbound receptor in a ligand-ready state in the cytoplasm.
Dexamethasone: Dexamethasone is a potent, long-acting synthetic glucocorticoid used to treat inflammation and other conditions. It is a widely used receptor agonist with strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Linked from 16 pages