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Term 15

Meaning

Glucocorticoid Resistance describes a state where target tissues exhibit a diminished responsiveness to the physiological effects of cortisol and other glucocorticoid hormones, despite normal or even elevated circulating hormone levels. This cellular insensitivity arises from defects in the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) function, which can involve reduced receptor number, altered binding affinity, or impaired nuclear translocation and DNA binding. Clinically, this condition can manifest as symptoms of chronic stress and inflammation, as the body struggles to effectively utilize its own anti-inflammatory and metabolic regulatory signals.