Animal Models of Cushing's Syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Animal Models
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Cushing's syndrome, a hormonal disorder, presents with distinct clinical features and comorbidities.
• Both endogenous and exogenous causes of Cushing's syndrome are recognized, with exogenous cases linked to prescribed glucocorticoids.
• Understanding the genetic basis and pathophysiology is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent research on diverse animal models of Cushing's syndrome.
• Models discussed include those induced by exogenous corticosterone (CORT) administration (drinking water, pellet implantation), corticotropin-releasing hormone overexpression, and adrenal-specific Prkar1a deficiency.
• AtT20 cell transplantation models are examined for evaluating treatments of adrenocorticotropic hormone-producing pituitary tumors.

Key Points:

• CORT pellet implantation in mice effectively induces a Cushing's phenotype.
• Novel genetically engineered mouse models offer insights into specific aspects of Cushing's syndrome.
• Animal models are instrumental in dissecting the molecular pathogenesis of glucocorticoid-induced complications.

Conclusions:

• Various animal models are valuable tools for investigating Cushing's syndrome.
• These models facilitate the study of disease mechanisms and the development of therapeutic strategies.
• Further research using these models will advance our understanding and treatment of Cushing's syndrome and its complications.