a hormone made by the adrenal cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal gland). it helps the body use glucose (a sugar), protein, and fats. cortisol made in the laboratory is called hydrocortisone. it is used to treat many conditions, including inflammation, allergies, and some cancers. cortisol is a type of glucocorticoid hormone.
出典:Wikipedia
出典:『Wikipedia』 (2011/07/23 07:38 UTC 版)
Cortisol (hydrocortisone) is a steroid hormone, or glucocorticoid, produced by the adrenal gland. It is released in response to stress and a low level of blood glucocorticoids. Its primary functions are to increase blood sugar through gluconeogenesis; suppress the immune system; and aid in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism. It also decreases bone formation. During pregnancy, increased production of cortisol between weeks 30-32 initiates production of fetal lung surfactant to promote maturation of the lungs. Various synthetic forms of cortisol are used to treat a variety of diseases.