Non-genomic Effects of Glucocorticoids: An Updated View

Glucocorticoid (GC) anti-inflammatory effects generally
require a prolonged onset of action and involve
genomic processes. Because of the rapidity of some
of the GC effects, however, the concept that non-genomic
actions may contribute to GC mechanisms of
action has arisen. While the mechanisms have not
been completely elucidated, the non-genomic effects
may play a role in the management of inflammatory
diseases. For instance, we recently reported that GCs
‘rapidly’ enhanced the effects of bronchodilators,
agents used in the treatment of allergic asthma. In
this review article, we discuss (i) the non-genomic
effects of GCs on pathways relevant to the pathogenesis
of inflammatory diseases and (ii) the putative
role of the membrane GC receptor. Since GC side effects
are often considered to be generated through
its genomic actions, understanding GC non-genomic
effects will help design GCs with a better therapeutic
index.

Author(s): RennoldsOstrom, OmarTliba

Abstract | PDF

Share This Article