Researchers from Kyushu University have made a breakthrough in understanding the mechanisms behind the formation of adrenal gland tumors. The team has identified a new type of tumor cell population, termed "steroids-producing nodules" (SPNs), that exhibit the unique characteristic of producing two different hormones.
The findings, published in eBioMedicine, provide crucial insights into the formation and maintenance of the human adrenal cortex, which can lead to better treatments for diseases linked to its dysfunction.
The adrenal cortex is a critical component of the endocrine system, responsible for producing vital hormones that regulate various bodily functions, from sleep-wake cycles to sexual development. Disruptions in the adrenal gland have been linked to a wide range of diseases, including cortisol-producing adenomas (CPAs), which are noncancerous tumors that produce excessive cortisol, the "stress hormone."
The research team, led by Professor Yoshihiro Ogawa, conducted a comprehensive analysis of tissue samples from patients with adrenal tumors. They discovered that the SPNs, which exhibit a unique two-layered structure resembling the zona fasciculata (zF) and zona reticularis (zR) of the adrenal cortex, are the key drivers of CPA development.
Specifically, the researchers found that the zF-like quality of the SPNs enhances cell proliferation, while the zR-like structure has a tumor-suppressive effect. The GNAS gene mutation, known to cause CPAs, was also identified in the SPNs, further confirming their role in the development of these tumors.
The researchers believe that their findings can lead to a better understanding of the layered structure of the adrenal cortex and potentially pave the way for the prevention and treatment of adrenal cortex atrophy, a common side effect of long-term steroid-based drug use. "Steroid based drugs are vital in the treatment of many diseases including autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, and allergic diseases like asthma. However, long-term use will atrophy of the adrenal cortex," concludes Ogawa . "We hope our results will advance our understanding of the layered structure of the adrenal cortex and can lead to the prevention and treatment of adrenal cortex atrophy in the future."