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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
04:33
Primary Culture of Rat Adrenocortical Cells and Assays of Steroidogenic Functions
Published on: March 12, 2019
[Important action of improving adrenocortical function for certain diseases recovery]
Zi-yin Shen1, Jing-cheng Dong, Ding-fang Cai
1Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai. ziyinshen@126.com
Summary
Shen-tonifying drugs improve adrenocortical function in patients with Shen-yang deficiency and asthma. These Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments may aid glucocorticoid withdrawal and adrenal cortex regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Context:
- Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hypofunction is observed in Shen-yang deficiency syndrome and asthma patients.
- Long-term glucocorticoid use can lead to HPA axis hypofunction.
Purpose:
- To investigate the role of Shen-tonifying drugs in modulating adrenocortical function.
- To explore the potential of Shen-tonifying drugs in managing HPA axis hypofunction and aiding glucocorticoid withdrawal.
Summary:
- Shen-tonifying drugs improve adrenocortical function, potentially preventing seasonal asthma attacks.
- These TCM therapies may enhance glucocorticoid withdrawal success rates by restoring HPA axis function.
- Mechanisms include activating adrenocortical stem cells and promoting adrenal cortex regeneration.
Impact:
- Provides a therapeutic strategy for HPA axis hypofunction across various diseases.
- Offers a potential complementary approach for asthma management and glucocorticoid tapering.
- Highlights the unitary modulation of adrenocortical function by Shen-tonifying drugs for holistic and local effects.
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