| Mechanism of action |
The antiinflammatory actions of corticosteroids are thought to
involve lipocortins, phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins which, through
inhibition of arachidonic acid, control the biosynthesis of
prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Firstly, however, these glucocorticoids
bind to the glucocorticoid receptors which translocate into the nucleus
and bind DNA (GRE) and change genetic expression both positively and
negatively. The immune system is suppressed by corticosteroids due to a
decrease in the function of the lymphatic system, a reduction in
immunoglobulin and complement concentrations, the precipitation of
lymphocytopenia, and interference with antigen-antibody binding. |
