betamethasone

Definition / meaning of betamethasone

A synthetic glucocorticoid with metabolic, immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities. Betamethasone binds to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and subsequently binds to DNA to modify gene expression. The synthesis of certain anti-inflammatory proteins is induced while the synthesis of certain inflammatory mediators is inhibited. As a result, there is an overall reduction in chronic inflammation and autoimmune reactions.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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