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The Glucocorticoid Receptor: Isoforms, Functions, and Contribution to Glucocorticoid Sensitivity
Jack Lockett1,2,3, Warrick J Inder2,3, Vicki L Clifton1
1Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4101, Australia.
Endocrine Reviews
|March 29, 2024
Summary
Glucocorticoids offer anti-inflammatory benefits but cause side effects. This review explores the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) structure, isoforms, and its role in glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Glucocorticoids are vital for homeostasis, with synthetic forms used therapeutically for anti-inflammatory effects.
- Therapeutic use is limited by dose- and duration-dependent side effects, with significant inter-individual variability.
- The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) mediates these effects, but traditional understanding of its function is evolving.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure and function of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR).
- To discuss the nature of GR isoforms and their implications.
- To explore the GR's contribution to glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance in health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on glucocorticoid receptor (GR) function.
- Analysis of studies investigating GR isoforms and their impact.
- Synthesis of data on glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Glucocorticoid effects are pleiotropic, impacting all tissues.
- Traditional models of GR function (transrepression for anti-inflammatory, transactivation for metabolic effects) are being re-evaluated.
- Discovery of multiple GR isoforms challenges canonical understanding.
Conclusions:
- The complexity of GR function, including isoforms, influences variable responses to glucocorticoids.
- Understanding GR isoforms is crucial for deciphering glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance.
- Further research into GR structure-function relationships can inform therapeutic strategies.
Keywords:
glucocorticoid receptorglucocorticoid receptor isoformsglucocorticoid sensitivityglucocorticoidshypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axisMore Related Videos
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