What is the Origin of Cortisol Degradation?

The term combines the name of the stress hormone, cortisol, with degradation, derived from the Latin degradare, meaning "to reduce in rank or status." It is a central concept in steroid hormone metabolism, primarily studied within endocrinology and hepatic physiology. Assessment of degradation metabolites is a clinical tool for evaluating HPA axis function beyond simple serum cortisol levels.

What is the Mechanism of Cortisol Degradation?

Degradation is predominantly carried out by a family of enzymes, notably the 5-alpha and 5-beta reductases, which operate mainly in the liver and convert active cortisol into its inactive tetrahydro-metabolites. The balance of these reductive pathways is influenced by genetic polymorphisms, nutritional status, and the presence of other circulating hormones. An altered degradation pattern can lead to symptoms of either cortisol excess or deficiency, even when total cortisol production is within the normal range.

Cortisol Degradation ∞ Area

Cortisol Degradation

Meaning

Cortisol Degradation is the specific metabolic process by which the active glucocorticoid hormone cortisol is chemically inactivated and prepared for excretion from the body. This critical catabolic pathway ensures that cortisol’s potent effects on metabolism, immunity, and inflammation are precisely terminated once its signaling role is complete. The efficiency of this process is a key determinant of the overall tissue exposure to active cortisol.