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Protein Kinase A Signaling in Cortisol Production and Adrenal Cushing's Syndrome

Abhishek Kumar1, Abhimanyu Sharma1, Mitchell H Omar1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA.

Cells
|January 9, 2026
PubMed

Insights

The cAMP-PKA pathway regulates cortisol production in the adrenal gland. This review synthesizes current models of protein kinase A (PKA) actions in steroidogenesis, particularly in Cushing's syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Signaling

Background:

  • The adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) pathway is essential for human physiology and cellular function.
  • Disruptions in cAMP-PKA signaling are implicated in various diseases, including cancers and endocrine disorders.
  • While cAMP and PKA's role in cortisol synthesis is known, the precise mechanisms remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of PKA in adrenal gland zona fasciculata steroidogenesis.
  • To synthesize a current model of cAMP-PKA signaling in cortisol production.
  • To consider recent findings from adrenal Cushing's syndrome studies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of evidence for PKA roles in steroidogenesis.
  • Analysis of studies on adrenal Cushing's syndrome.
  • Synthesis of a mechanistic model for cAMP-PKA actions.

Main Results:

  • PKA is a critical regulator of steroidogenesis in the adrenal zona fasciculata.
  • Specific PKA-mediated mechanisms in cortisol production are being elucidated.
  • Cushing's syndrome provides insights into dysregulated cAMP-PKA signaling.

Conclusions:

  • The cAMP-PKA pathway is central to adrenal cortisol production.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand PKA's molecular mechanisms in steroidogenesis.
  • Understanding these pathways is crucial for treating endocrine disorders like Cushing's syndrome.
Keywords:
CushingPKAadrenalcAMPcortisolcyclic AMPglucocorticoidsprotein kinase A

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