glucocorticoid

[gloo-koh-kawr-ti-koid]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. any of a class of steroid hormones that are synthesized by the adrenal cortex of vertebrates and have anti-inflammatory activity.

glucocorticoid

/ ˌɡluːkəʊˈkɔːtɪˌkɔɪd /

noun

1. any of a class of corticosteroids that control carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism and have anti-inflammatory activity

Word History and Origins

Origin of glucocorticoid¹

1945–50; gluco- + cortic(o)- ( def. ) + -oid; corticosteroid

Example Sentences

As the researchers report in the journal Nature, glucocorticoids reprogram the metabolism of immune cells, activating the body's natural "brakes" on inflammation.

Read more on Science Daily

Glucocorticoids regulate vital biological processes by affecting gene encoding through a DNA-binding transcription factor, namely the glucocorticoid receptor.

Read more on Science Daily

Higher MIF levels are associated with glucocorticoid resistance, which means that our bodies are more prone to mount a more robust inflammatory response, he explained.

Read more on Science Daily

"In addition, it shows that low glucocorticoids are causally implicated in the determination of other risk factors and symptoms that were until now only independently related to PTSD."

Read more on Science Daily

It can significantly affect quality of life, and currently is mainly treated with the steroid, glucocorticoids.

Read more on Science Daily