Summary
The metabolic syndrome X and Cushing's syndrome show similar symptoms but one major
difference: Plasma cortisol is not elevated in the metabolic syndrome. Evidence is
presented, that by the action of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11βHSD1) higher intracellular cortisol concentration may be created that may be relevant
to induce insulin resistance and metabolic disturbances. Regulation of 11βHSD1 expression by hormones, growth factors, cytokines and transcription factors enables
tissue specific adjustments of glucocorticoid receptor activation by cortisol. Specific
inhibition of 11βHSD1 would help to understand aspects of the pathogenesis of syndrome X and to develop
new therapeutic perspectives.
Key words:
Metabolic syndrome - 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases - diabetes
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Dr. rer. nat. Volker Bähr
Abt. für Ernährungsmedizin, Endokrinologie und Diabetes
Universitätsklinikum Benjamin Franklin
Freie Universität Berlin
Hindenburgdamm 30
12200 Berlin
Germany
Telefon: + 49 30 84452636
Fax: + 49 30 84454204
eMail: volker.baehr@medizin.fu-berlin.de