Targeting 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases: a novel approach to manipulating local glucocorticoid levels with implications for rheumatic disease

- 11β-HSD enzymes are important regulators of tissue glucocorticoid action.
- In phase 2 studies specific 11β-HSD1 inhibitors show improvements in the metabolic syndrome.
- Disrupting glucocorticoid action in osteoblasts attenuates inflammation in experimental arthritis.
- Glucocorticoid excess can cause metabolic dysfunction though effects on bone.