cellular response to glucocorticoid stimulus

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that results in a change in state or activity of a cell (in terms of movement, secretion, enzyme production, gene expression, etc.) as a result of a glucocorticoid stimulus. Glucocorticoids are hormonal C21 corticosteroids synthesized from cholesterol with the ability to bind with the cortisol receptor and trigger similar effects. Glucocorticoids act primarily on carbohydrate and protein metabolism, and have anti-inflammatory effects. [GOC:mah]

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroid hormones that play a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, inflammation, immune response, and stress adaptation. Upon binding to their specific intracellular receptors, GCs trigger a complex signaling cascade that ultimately alters gene expression and cellular function.

The cellular response to GC stimulus begins with the binding of GCs to their cognate receptors, known as glucocorticoid receptors (GRs). GRs are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily and reside primarily in the cytoplasm in an inactive state, complexed with chaperone proteins. Upon GC binding, GRs undergo a conformational change that promotes their dissociation from chaperones and translocation to the nucleus.

Once in the nucleus, activated GRs bind to specific DNA sequences known as glucocorticoid response elements (GREs) located in the regulatory regions of target genes. This binding can either activate or repress gene transcription, depending on the specific gene and the context.

Activation of gene expression by GRs typically involves the recruitment of coactivator proteins to the GRE, leading to chromatin remodeling and increased accessibility of the gene to the transcription machinery. In contrast, repression of gene expression often involves the recruitment of corepressors that block the activity of transcription factors, thus reducing gene expression.

The specific cellular response to GC stimulus is determined by the target genes that are regulated by GRs. For example, GCs can induce the expression of genes involved in glucose metabolism, such as the gene encoding phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), leading to increased gluconeogenesis. They can also suppress the expression of pro-inflammatory genes, such as those encoding cytokines and chemokines, contributing to their anti-inflammatory effects.

In addition to regulating gene expression, GCs can also modulate cellular function through non-genomic pathways. These pathways involve rapid signaling events that occur independently of gene transcription. For example, GCs can activate intracellular signaling cascades that modulate the activity of enzymes, ion channels, and other cellular components.

The cellular response to GC stimulus is a complex process that is tightly regulated at multiple levels. This regulation ensures that GCs exert their effects in a controlled and context-dependent manner, contributing to their diverse physiological roles.'
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Proteins (10)

Compounds (532)