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Concept

Cortisol

A conceptual illustration depicts cortisol, a steroid hormone, as a hexagonal structure perched atop two kidney-like shapes, symbolizing its production in the adrenal cortex.

A steroid hormone manufactured from cholesterol in the cortex of the adrenal glands, perched on top of each kidney. Cortisol mobilises glucose, suppresses inflammation and modulates the immune system on a daily rhythm that peaks just before waking. Sustained elevation, from chronic stress, Cushing's disease or prescribed glucocorticoids, produces a recognisable syndrome of central obesity, thin skin, hypertension and mood disturbance.

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