How do glucocorticoids exert their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects in the treatment of arthritis?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the mechanism of action of glucocorticoids in reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response, specifically in the context of treating arthritis. This requires an understanding of pharmacology and immunology.
Answer
Glucocorticoids work by altering leukocyte gene transcription, repressing pro-inflammatory genes, and inducing anti-inflammatory factors.
Glucocorticoids exert anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects mainly through transcriptional effects of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) that alter gene transcription in leukocytes, repressing pro-inflammatory genes and inducing anti-inflammatory factors.
Answer for screen readers
Glucocorticoids exert anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects mainly through transcriptional effects of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) that alter gene transcription in leukocytes, repressing pro-inflammatory genes and inducing anti-inflammatory factors.
More Information
Glucocorticoids bind to and activate the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), leading to changes in gene expression. They inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and promote synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins. This dual action helps in managing inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Tips
A common mistake is to focus only on the inhibition of pro-inflammatory factors, forgetting the importance of inducing anti-inflammatory mediators.
Sources
- The anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of glucocorticoids - sciencedirect.com
- The Role of Glucocorticoids in Inflammatory Diseases - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- One Hormone, Two Actions: Anti- and Pro-Inflammatory Effects of Glucocorticoids - karger.com
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