glukokortikoidireseptori

Glukokortikoidireseptori, often abbreviated as GR, is a protein that functions as a receptor for glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids are a class of steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, and they play crucial roles in various physiological processes including metabolism, immune response, and stress management. The GR is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily and is found in the cytoplasm of cells when not bound to a ligand.

Upon binding of a glucocorticoid molecule, the GR undergoes a conformational change. This change typically involves the dissociation of the receptor from chaperone proteins that keep it in an inactive state. The activated GR then translocates to the nucleus, where it can regulate gene expression. This regulation can occur through two primary mechanisms: transrepression, where the GR inhibits the activity of other transcription factors, and transactivation, where the GR binds directly to specific DNA sequences called glucocorticoid response elements (GREs) to either activate or repress gene transcription.

The GR plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis. Its actions influence glucose metabolism by promoting gluconeogenesis and inhibiting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. In the immune system, GR activation generally leads to immunosuppression and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to these broad functions, GR signaling is a target for various therapeutic interventions, particularly in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. However, dysregulation of GR signaling is also implicated in conditions such as Cushing's syndrome and glucocorticoid resistance.