Steroid hormone secreted in the
adrenal cortex that targets
adipose (fat),
muscle tissue and the
liver. Also known as
hydrocortisone, cortisol is one of several
glucocorticoids. It stimulates the transfer of
amino acids from muscles to the liver and
fatty acids from adipose cells to the liver. The fatty acids and amino acids released are used in
gluconeogenesis (synthesis of
glucose from sources besides
carbohydrates).
Glucocorticoids also have anti-inflammatory action which has resulted in widespread clinical applications.