cellular response to corticosterone 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 corticosterone stimulus. Corticosterone is a 21 carbon steroid hormone of the corticosteroid type, produced in the cortex of the adrenal glands. In many species, corticosterone is the principal glucocorticoid, involved in regulation of fuel metabolism, immune reactions, and stress responses. [GOC:mah]

Corticosterone, a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, plays a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including stress response, metabolism, and immune function. Upon encountering a stressor, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is activated, leading to the release of corticosterone into the bloodstream. Corticosterone, upon reaching target cells, binds to its specific receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), located in the cytoplasm. The binding of corticosterone to GR triggers a conformational change in the receptor, promoting its translocation into the nucleus. Inside the nucleus, the corticosterone-GR complex interacts with specific DNA sequences called glucocorticoid response elements (GREs) located in the promoter regions of target genes. This interaction leads to the regulation of gene expression, either activating or repressing the transcription of specific genes. This intricate process of gene regulation by corticosterone-GR complexes results in diverse cellular responses, ranging from altered metabolism and immune responses to changes in neuronal activity and behavior. For instance, corticosterone can enhance glucose metabolism by promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver and suppressing glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Additionally, it can suppress inflammatory responses by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, corticosterone is known to influence brain function by modulating neuronal excitability and synaptic plasticity, ultimately impacting cognitive processes and mood. The cellular response to corticosterone is a complex and tightly regulated process, ensuring that the body can effectively respond to stressful situations while maintaining homeostasis.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)