Cortisol on Circadian Rhythm and Its Effect on Cardiovascular System.

Nor Amira Syahira Mohd Azmi,Sahar Azmani,Nadia Mohd Effendy,Norsham Juliana,Nur Islami Mohd Fahmi Teng,Srijit Das,Izuddin Fahmy Abu

doi:10.3390/ijerph18020676

Abstract

The synthesis and secretion of cortisol are controlled by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Cortisol exhibits a proper 24-h circadian rhythm that affects the brain, the autonomic nervous system, the heart, and the vasculature that prepares the cardiovascular system for optimal function during these anticipated behavioral cycles. A literature search was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. Relevant search terms included “circadian rhythm and cardiovascular”, “cortisol”, “cortisol and acute coronary syndrome”, “cortisol and arrhythmias”, “cortisol and sudden cardiac death”, “cortisol and stroke”, and “cardioprotective agents”. A total of 120 articles were obtained on the basis of the above search. Lower levels of cortisol were seen at the beginning of sleep, while there was a rise towards the end of sleep, with the highest level reached at the moment the individual wakes up. In the present review, we discuss the role of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1), which is a novel molecular target of interest for treating metabolic syndrome and type-2 diabetes mellitus. 11β-HSD1 is the major determinant of cortisol excess, and its inhibition alleviates metabolic abnormalities. The present review highlights the role of cortisol, which controls the circadian rhythm, and describes its effect on the cardiovascular system. The review provides a platform for future potential cardioprotective therapeutic agents.

Highlights

Circadian rhythm is known as a periodic pattern that takes about 24-h, where the light–dark cycles synchronize biological functions with the environment [1]
It is of great significance to assess blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), blood coagulation markers, vascular endothelial function, and circulating catecholamines at the right time of the day [13]
Cortisol is a key player in the circadian system that significantly regulates cardiac function

Summary

Introduction

Circadian rhythm is known as a periodic pattern that takes about 24-h, where the light–dark cycles synchronize biological functions with the environment [1]. The circadian system coordinates physiology and behaviors towards the environment in such a way that the body acts like a finely harmonized clock. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus functions as the master of the clock, synchronizing 24-h rhythms in the body’s physiological behavior, including other brain regions and peripheral tissues. One of the most potent hormones in human physiology is cortisol, in which most of the cells of the body are potential cortisol targets.

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Conclusion