Corticosterone-21-acetate

Corticosterone-21-acetate, also known as corticosterone acetate, is a synthetic glucocorticoid and a derivative of the endogenous steroid hormone corticosterone. It is primarily used in research and, occasionally, in veterinary medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. This compound allows researchers to study the effects of a modified corticosterone molecule without the complexities of the native hormone's metabolism or rapid clearance from the body. Its action involves binding to glucocorticoid receptors, affecting gene expression and influencing various physiological processes, including immune responses, glucose metabolism, and stress response pathways. The acetate group at the 21-position modifies its pharmacokinetic profile compared to native corticosterone.

Corticosterone-21-acetate meaning with examples

• In a study on adrenal insufficiency, corticosterone-21-acetate was administered to rats to observe its impact on stress response, specifically monitoring the recovery of various physiological parameters. Researchers noted that the acetate derivative showed extended release compared to corticosterone alone allowing for continuous action. It was observed that corticosterone-21-acetate significantly improved metabolic homeostasis.
• A veterinary research team investigated the efficacy of corticosterone-21-acetate in treating equine inflammatory conditions. The drug was observed to alleviate the symptoms of equine asthma; it suppressed the hyper-reactivity of the horses' respiratory systems. Furthermore, the horses also experienced a marked reduction in pulmonary inflammation, demonstrating a therapeutic potential.
• When researching the relationship between chronic stress and immune system function, scientists used corticosterone-21-acetate to chronically elevate corticosterone levels in mice. The extended release profile of the acetate allows for constant observation. Researchers noted the suppression of various immune cells and the increased susceptibility to infections, which provided further insight.
• A pharmacokinetics study used corticosterone-21-acetate. The scientists were assessing the compound's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) characteristics. These tests allowed them to understand how the modified corticosterone is processed, leading to data regarding it's longer half-life compared to the unaltered version and enabling appropriate dosage regimes.
• Researchers evaluated corticosterone-21-acetate's impact on gene expression in neuronal cells. By observing the activation of glucocorticoid receptors and their effects on certain genes, the effects of high levels of corticosterone are being investigated. They observed the influence of gene expression affecting neuronal pathways, and other metabolic processes, by use of this compound.