Article
Article
Glucocorticoid
Article By:
Khan, Sabab Hasan Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.
Okafor, C. Denise Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.
Last reviewed:April 2022
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.291950
One class of several hormones that are produced in the outer part of adrenal glands, known as the cortex. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are crucial for regulating metabolism, the immune system, blood pressure, and other essential functions (see illustration). Adrenal hormones also include estrogens, androgens, progestins, and mineralocorticoids. These hormones are classified as steroid hormones, with GCs and mineralocorticoids (that is, corticosteroids) comprising the predominant product of the adrenal cortex. See also: Adrenal gland; Hormone
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