The corticosteroids are vital for life and well-being. Each of the corticosteroids serves a unique purpose.
| Hormone |
Target |
Effects |
| Mineralocorticoids |
Kidneys |
Increases reabsorption of sodium ions and water from the urine; stimulates loss of potassium ions through excretion of urine |
| Glucocorticoids |
Most cells |
Releases amino acids from skeletal muscles, lipids from adipose tissues; promotes liver glycogen and glucose formation; promotes peripheral utilization of lipids; anti-inflammatory effects |
| Androgens |
|
Promotes growth of pubic hair in boys and girls; in adult women, promotes muscle mass, blood cell formation, and supports the libido; in adult men, adrenal androgens are less signficant because androgens are released primarily from the gonads |
