Corticosteron

Corticosteron is a steroid hormone belonging to the glucocorticoid class. It is produced in the adrenal cortex of vertebrates. While structurally similar to cortisol, corticosterone plays a more dominant role in regulating physiological processes in many species, including rodents and birds. In humans, its physiological significance is less pronounced than that of cortisol, though it still contributes to stress responses.

Corticosterone is synthesized from cholesterol through a series of enzymatic reactions. It is released in response to stress, acting on various tissues to modulate metabolism and immune function. It influences glucose metabolism by promoting gluconeogenesis and inhibiting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. It also has anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators. In animals where it is the primary glucocorticoid, corticosterone is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and adapting to environmental challenges. Its levels can fluctuate significantly based on circadian rhythms and acute or chronic stressors. Research into corticosterone continues to explore its diverse roles in physiology and behavior across different species.