Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Pathogenesis of primary adrenal insufficiency
Eystein Husebye1, Kristian Løvås
1Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Section of Endocrinology, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway. eyhu@helse-bergen.no
Abstract:
Autoimmune Addison's disease is caused by autoreactivity towards the adrenal cortex involving 21-hydroxylase autoantibodies and autoreactive T cells. Autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex is triggered by hitherto unknown environmental factors in individuals with genetic susceptibility. Several genes have been identified, of which the major histocompatibility complex haplotypes DR3-DQ2 and DR4-DQ8 are most strongly associated. In addition, other genes also implicated in other autoimmune diseases are linked to Addison's disease, such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22), major histocompatibility complex class II transactivator (CIITA), and most recently the C-lectin type gene (CLEC16A). Studies employing T cells in humans and animal models, and the collection of large patient cohorts facilitating genome-wide screening projects, will hopefully improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease in the near future.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenal Gland Disorders
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction
Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology
Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
