(Mode of Action of Drugs)

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Chapter

1.4

Chapter

8.3 Glucocorticoids & Sex Hormones

Glucocorticoids & Sex

Hormones

GLUCOCORTICOIDS

As discussed in previous chapters,
secretion of adrenocortical steroids is
controlled by the pituitary release of
corticotrophin (ACTH). The adrenal
gland has two main parts, adrenal
medulla, which is responsible for the
release of catecholamines and adrenal
cortex which secretes glucocorticoids,

mineralocorticoids and sex hormones. The

glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids are

twenty one carbon compounds having a

cyclopentanoperhydro-phenanthrene

nucleus. Both these hormones are

synthesised in the adrenal cortex from

cholesterol (see Fig. 8.3.1).

The important glucocorticoid secreted in

human being is hydrocortisone (10 mg/

day). They are listed in table 8.3.1.

Fig. 8.3.1: Biosynthesis of various steroid hormones.

Cholesterol

Pregnenolone

Progesterone 17 α-Hydroxy- Dehydroepiandro-

pregnenolone sterone

Desoxy-

corticosterone 17 α-Hydroxy- Androstenedione

progesterone

Corticosterone

Desoxyhydro- Testosterone

cortisone

Aldosterone

Hydrocortisone Estrogens