🧬 What Is Cortisone?
- Cortisone is a glucocorticoid hormone, like cortisol.
- It’s produced in the adrenal cortex from cortisol via the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2).
- It is often considered a less active or inactive form of cortisol, but it can be converted back into cortisol in target tissues by 11β-HSD1.
Cortisone Associated Diseases and Disorders
🔁 Cortisol ⇌ Cortisone Interconversion
| Enzyme | Location | Function |
| 11β-HSD1 | Liver, fat, brain | Converts cortisone → cortisol (activating) |
| 11β-HSD2 | Kidney, colon, salivary glands | Converts cortisol → cortisone (inactivating) to protect mineralocorticoid receptors |
⚙️ Physiological Functions of Cortisone
Though cortisone is less active, it still plays a critical role as a cortisol buffer and therapeutic agent.
1. 🔄 Cortisol Regulation / Reservoir
- Acts as a circulating reservoir for cortisol.
- Can be converted back into cortisol in tissues that require glucocorticoid action.
- Maintains hormonal balance and helps modulate stress and metabolic responses indirectly.
2. 🧂 Protects Mineralocorticoid Receptors (MR)
- In the kidney, cortisone conversion prevents cortisol from binding to MR, which are intended for aldosterone.
- Prevents inappropriate sodium retention, hypertension, and potassium loss.
3. 🛡️ Anti-Inflammatory & Immunosuppressive (Therapeutic Use)
- Pharmacologic cortisone is used in:
- Arthritis
- Dermatitis
- Autoimmune diseases
- Asthma or allergic reactions
Note: In therapy, cortisone is often converted to cortisol (hydrocortisone) in the body to exert full activity.
🧬 Summary Table
| Function | Role |
| Hormone precursor | Inactive form of cortisol, ready for reactivation |
| Enzyme regulation | Keeps cortisol from overactivating MR (especially in kidneys) |
| Metabolic buffer | Helps maintain glucocorticoid tone in different tissues |
| Therapeutic use | Anti-inflammatory & immunosuppressive agent (e.g., cortisone injections) |