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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
13:22
A Chemical Screening Procedure for Glucocorticoid Signaling with a Zebrafish Larva Luciferase Reporter System
Published on: September 10, 2013
[Current development of glucocorticoid-targeting drugs]
1Division of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|January 15, 2008
Summary
Glucocorticoids are widely used for inflammation but cause adverse effects. This review explores their molecular mechanisms and the development of safer, modified compounds to separate therapeutic benefits from side effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Molecular Pharmacology
- Nuclear Receptor Signaling
Context:
- Glucocorticoids are commonly prescribed for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
- Long-term use affects 0.5-1% of the general population and up to 2.5% of older adults.
- Adverse events frequently limit the clinical application of glucocorticoids.
Purpose:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of glucocorticoid action.
- To discuss the rationale for developing novel glucocorticoid-like compounds.
- To achieve dissociation between therapeutic effects and adverse reactions.
Summary:
- Glucocorticoids exert their effects by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily.
- Understanding the molecular pathways of GR activation is crucial for therapeutic applications.
- Emerging strategies aim to create compounds that retain anti-inflammatory benefits while minimizing side effects.
Impact:
- Provides insights into glucocorticoid pharmacology and molecular mechanisms.
- Highlights the need for safer therapeutic alternatives in managing inflammatory diseases.
- Informs the development of next-generation glucocorticoid receptor modulators.
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