Moreover, after SCI, the homeostatic function of the adrenal glands is impaired, abolishing their ability to regulate the hypothalamus, and hypercortisolemia is caused by adrenal denervation (CNS decompression), resulting in inhibition of ACTH expression through a negative feedback mechanism and eventually to a high degree of adrenal autonomy. This evidence concerns the gene POMC and adrenal gland hyperfunction.