Glucocorticoid

A steroid hormone or medication that binds glucocorticoid receptors to regulate metabolism, inflammation, and immune activity. Natural glucocorticoids are produced mainly by the adrenal cortex.

Glucocorticoid receptor: A nuclear receptor that binds glucocorticoids and alters gene expression. It is the principal molecular target through which glucocorticoids produce many cellular effects.
Prednisone: An oral corticosteroid converted in the body to the active drug prednisolone. It is a widely prescribed systemic glucocorticoid for inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases.
Steroid hormone: A signaling molecule derived from cholesterol that can cross cell membranes and bind intracellular receptors. Glucocorticoids belong to this hormone family and share its lipid-derived structure.
Glucocorticoid excess: A state in which glucocorticoid exposure exceeds the body’s physiological needs. Both endogenous overproduction and medication can produce this broad clinical state.
Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis: A hormonal system linking the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands in stress regulation. It controls the release of the body’s principal glucocorticoid, cortisol.
Dexamethasone: A potent, long-acting synthetic glucocorticoid with little mineralocorticoid activity. Its potency and duration suit selected inflammatory conditions and other specific clinical uses.
Adrenal cortex: The outer region of the adrenal gland that produces steroid hormones. Its zona fasciculata produces most circulating cortisol.
Cushing syndrome: A disorder caused by prolonged exposure to excessive glucocorticoids. It describes the characteristic consequences of sustained glucocorticoid excess.
Cortisol: The main glucocorticoid hormone in humans, produced by the adrenal cortex. It is the chief natural glucocorticoid and a model for the hormone class.
Inhaled corticosteroid: A glucocorticoid medication delivered to the airways to reduce local inflammation. Inhaled delivery treats airway inflammation while generally limiting systemic exposure.

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