ABSTRACT
Glucocorticoids play a vital role in the cellular functions and homeostatic mechanisms that govern normal physiological function. Synthetic analogs, which act via the glucocorticoid receptor, are able to mimic the actions of endogenous cortisol in controlling activation of genes that are important in inflammation. By understanding how glucocorticoids work to modulate the expression of inflammatory mediators known to be implicated in the asthmatic airway, it may be possible to provide more efficacious drugs to broaden the pharmacological options currently available for asthma and other allergic conditions.
