Abstract
Resistance to the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids in asthma and other inflammatory and immune diseases is uncommon, but presents a management problem. Understanding the mechanisms of steroid resistance provides new insights into the mechanism of steroid action as well as the underlying chronic disease process. In patients with primary steroid-resistant (SR) asthma there is no abnormality in the pharmacokinetics of the exogenous steroid and no significant defect in steroid binding to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Recent studies have demonstrated a marked reduction in the binding of GR to DNA; this appears to be due to increased binding of GR to the transcription factor activator protein-1 (AP-1). Secondary steroid resistance in asthma may arise in response to the release of cytokines that activate AP-1 and other transcription factors that bind directly to GR. A similar effect may also be seen with high concentrations of beta 2-agonists that activate another GR binding transcription factor, CREB. Several existing and novel treatment strategies are possible in the management of SR asthma.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
