Question

Cushing syndrome is caused by an increase in the synthesis of cortisol in the adrenal gland. Which of the following compounds is directly required as a substrate for the synthesis of this hormone?

A) cholesterol
B) glucose
C) free fatty acids
D) amino acids

Answer 1

Cholesterol

Step-by-step explanation:

Cushing Syndrome occurs as a result of exposure of the body to elevated levels of cortisol hormone (stress hormone) for a long time. The elevated level of cortisol which is a steroid hormone, results from increased synthesis of cortisol in the adrenal glands. Cortisol is synthesized from a substrate called, cholesterol. Cortisol synthesis occurs in the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex and controlled or regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis or HPA axis.

Cholesterol, which is an important substrate in cortisol synthesis, is a lipid usually found in cells and plays an important function in hormone synthesis, food digestion and synthesis of Vitamin D.