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Background
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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 surfactanct to promote maturation of the lungs. Various synthetic forms of cortisol are used to treat a variety of different diseases.
Description: 11beta, 17alpha, 21-Trihydroxypregn-4-ene-3,20-dione.
Alternative Names: 11beta, 21-triol-3, 20-dione protein, 17alpha, Reichstein's substance M, 17-Hydroxycorticosterone protein, Kendall's compound F, Cortisol, 20-dione protein, 4-Pregnene-11beta protein, 21-Trihydroxypregn-4-ene-3 protein, 17alpha
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