What is the Origin of Anti-Inflammatory Hormones?

This descriptive term is rooted in the physiological function of the hormones, combining the Greek prefix anti meaning against with the Latin root inflammare meaning to set on fire, and the Greek hormon meaning to set in motion. Glucocorticoids, like cortisol, were among the first hormones identified with potent anti-inflammatory effects, leading to the clinical categorization of this functional group.

What is the Mechanism of Anti-Inflammatory Hormones?

Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, exert their effect by binding to intracellular receptors, which then modulate gene transcription to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production, including interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Other hormones, including certain sex steroids like estrogen and progesterone, also possess immunomodulatory properties. These hormones help to resolve inflammation by promoting regulatory immune cell activity and shifting the balance away from chronic inflammatory states.

Anti-Inflammatory Hormones ∞ Area

Anti-Inflammatory Hormones

Meaning

Anti-inflammatory hormones are endogenous chemical messengers primarily secreted by endocrine glands that function to suppress or resolve systemic and localized inflammatory processes. These crucial modulators maintain immune system equilibrium and prevent chronic tissue damage caused by unchecked inflammatory cascades. The clinical importance lies in leveraging these hormones to mitigate inflammatory-driven aging and disease progression.