Biphasic glucocorticoid regulation of pulmonary SP-A: characterization of inhibitory process

The aggregation of surfactant protein A (SP-A) and its mRNA is induced and hindered by glucocorticoids. The hormones are eliminated to reverse the induction process after a short period of exposure, which causes increases in low levels. This phenomenon is seen particularly in steroids with glucocorticoid activity. Extended periods of exposure to glucocorticoids reveal the hindering of SP-A gene expression.