NCIt definition : The synthetic acetate ester form of hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory
and immunosuppressive properties. Hydrocortisone acetate initially binds to the cytoplasmic
glucocorticoid receptor; then the receptor-ligand complex is translocated to the nucleus
where it initiates the transcription of genes encoding for anti-inflammatory mediators,
such as cytokines and lipocortins. Lipocortins inhibit phospholipase A2, thereby blocking
the release of arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids and preventing the synthesis
of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.;