The cAMP pathway and the control of adrenocortical development and growth

In the last 10 years, extensive studies showed that the cAMP pathway is deregulated in patients suffering from adrenocortical tumours, and particularly in primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD). Here we describe how evidence arising from the analysis of patients’ data, mouse models and in vitro experiments, have shed light on the cAMP pathway as a central player in adrenal physiopathology. We also show how novel data generated from mouse models may point to new targets for potential therapies.

► We describe the central role of cAMP pathway deregulations in adrenal pathophysiology.
► We compare mouse models and confront them with data from patients.
► We update mechanisms linking Cushing syndrome to various adrenal tumours.
► We discuss contribution of mouse models to novel understanding of adrenal development.