Steroid
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See for
Broader Terms
Narrower Terms
androstane compound, cholanate compound, estratriene compound, oxysteroid, pregnane compound, steroid glycoside aglycone
Related Terms
Scope Note
compounds that contain a hydrogenated cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring system; they include cholesterol, numerous hormones, precursors of certain vitamins, bile acids, alcohols, and certain natural drugs and poisons.
Facts
- Steroids are molecules that contain a similar chemical core. Their natural function is to act as hormonal messengers in the body.
- They are usually hormones or constituents of cell membranes. Common steroids include estrogen, testosterone, cortisone, Vitamin D, and cholesterol.
- Synthetic versions are administered as drugs because of their ability to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- The medicines may come in pill and inhaled forms and are also called corticosteroids.
Disscusion
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