18-Oxocortisol

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18-Oxocortisol is a steroid hormone that is a derivative of cortisol. It is produced in the adrenal glands and plays a role in the body's response to stress and metabolism regulation.

Biochemistry

18-Oxocortisol is synthesized from cortisol through the action of specific enzymes in the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing various steroid hormones, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens.

Function

The primary function of 18-Oxocortisol is similar to that of cortisol, which includes regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress response. It is involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is a complex set of interactions among the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands.

Clinical Significance

Elevated levels of 18-Oxocortisol can be indicative of certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome and primary aldosteronism. It is often measured in clinical diagnostics to assess adrenal function and to diagnose disorders related to cortisol production.

See also

• Cortisol
• Adrenal gland
• Steroid hormone
• Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
• Cushing's syndrome
• Primary aldosteronism