Adrenocortical
steroids are also
known as corticosteroids or adrenocorticosteroids.
This group of steroid hormones is produced by the adrenal glands and
acts as anti-inflammatory agents.
Adrenocortical
steroids share similar chemical structures but they
fulfill different physiologic effects. This group of steroid hormones
is further divided into two groups – glucocorticoids and
mineralocorticoids. The hormones cortisol (also known as
hydrocortisone) and corticosterone are glucocorticoids. Aldosterone and
desoxycorticosterone are mineralocorticosteroids.
As mentioned above, andrenocortical steroids facilitate different
physiologic functions in the body. Glucocorticoids regulate
carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. They are also involved in
the anti-inflammatory and immune responses in the body. Cortisol, a
glucocorticoid, is known as the primary stress hormone. When you
undergo any form of stress (physical or psychological), cortisol is
released by the adrenal cortex of the kidney. Cortisol regulates the
required energy in response to a certain stress. When you’re doing a
bodybuilding exercise, for example, cortisol mobilizes protein and fat
reserves to be used for energy production by your working muscles.
Mineralocorticosteroids,
on the other hand, regulate sodium (salt) and water balance in the
body. These types of adrenocortical steroids are so named because they
are primarily involved in the retention by the kidney of sodium, a
mineral.
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