11 beta-HSD Inhibitors

The isozymes 11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2, both 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases (11β-HSD), catalyze the interconversion of cortisol (corticosterone in rodents) and cortisone (11-dehyrodocorticosterone). 11β-HSD1 converts cortisone to cortisol, the active hormone; and 11β-HSD2 converts cortisol to cortisone, the inactive form.

Cortisol is initially synthesized and released by the adrenal glands under the strict control of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Levels vary ...