Question

Inflammatory responses can be controlled by a certain steroid. Name the steroid, its source and also its other important functions.

Answer 1

Identification of the steroid:

Cortisol is a steroid which is immunosuppressive. It suppresses the immune responses. As a result of this anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive role, cortisol is prescribed for organ transplant recipients.



Source of the steroid:

Cortisol is the principal glucocorticoid which is produced by the zona fasciculata (middle layer of the cortex region) of the adrenal gland.

Other important functions of the steroid:

Apart from anti-inflammatory responses, cortisol plays the following functions:

• It promotes gluconeogenesis.
• It stimulates proteolysis thus increasing the amount of amino acids in the blood.
• It inhibits the uptake and utilisation of amino acids by the cells.
• It stimulates lipolysis.
• It influences the cardiovascular system.
• It modulates the kidney functions.
• It stimulates the production of RBC.