Steroid Associated Diseases and Disorders
Steroid Hormones & Their Functions
Steroid hormones are lipid-soluble molecules derived from cholesterol. They easily cross cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors, influencing gene expression.
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Glucocorticoids
Primary hormone: Cortisol (produced in adrenal cortex – zona fasciculata)
Physiological Functions:
- Regulate metabolism: Stimulate gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, and protein breakdown
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Suppress immune responses, inhibit prostaglandin/leukotriene synthesis
- Stress response: Increase blood glucose and blood pressure during stress
- Electrolyte balance: Mild mineralocorticoid activity (promotes sodium retention)
- Mood & behavior modulation
Mineralocorticoids
Primary hormone: Aldosterone (produced in adrenal cortex – zona glomerulosa)
Physiological Functions:
- Regulates sodium and potassium balance
- Promotes Na⁺ reabsorption and K⁺/H⁺ excretion in the distal nephron
- Maintains blood pressure and extracellular fluid volume
Androgens
Primary hormone: Testosterone (males), DHEA/DHEAS (adrenal source)
Physiological Functions:
- Male sexual development: Promotes development of testes, penis, scrotum
- Muscle mass & strength: Stimulates protein synthesis
- Secondary sex characteristics: Deep voice, facial/body hair
- Libido and mood regulation
- Bone growth and density
Estrogens
Primary hormone: Estradiol (E2)
Physiological Functions:
- Female sexual development: Maturation of uterus, vagina, and breasts
- Menstrual cycle regulation: Stimulates endometrial proliferation
- Bone maintenance: Inhibits bone resorption
- Neuroprotective and mood-regulating
- Cardiovascular health: Improves lipid profile (↑HDL, ↓LDL)
Progestogens
Primary hormone: Progesterone
Physiological Functions:
- Prepares uterus for implantation: Maintains endometrium after ovulation
- Inhibits uterine contractions during pregnancy
- Prepares breasts for lactation
- Regulates menstrual cycle: Inhibits FSH and LH to prevent multiple ovulations
Summary Chart
Hormone
Key Functions
Cortisol
Metabolism, anti-inflammatory, stress response
Aldosterone
Na⁺ retention, K⁺/H⁺ excretion, BP control
Testosterone
Male development, muscle/bone growth, libido
Estrogens
Female development, menstrual cycle, bone health, cardiovascular protection
Progesterone
Uterine preparation, pregnancy maintenance, menstrual cycle regulation