Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Definition
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol and other glucocorticoids, which are crucial for stress response and metabolism regulation.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- ACTH is released in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus.
- It follows a diurnal rhythm, with peak levels in the early morning and lowest levels at night.
- ACTH secretion is part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a key role in stress response.
- Elevated ACTH levels can indicate conditions like Addison's disease or Cushing's disease.
- Synthetic ACTH is sometimes used in diagnostic tests to assess adrenal gland function.
Review Questions
- What triggers the release of ACTH from the anterior pituitary gland?
- How does ACTH affect the adrenal cortex?
- What are some clinical conditions associated with abnormal ACTH levels?
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Related terms
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH): A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the secretion of ACTH by the anterior pituitary.
Cortisol: A glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate metabolism and stress responses.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis: A complex set of interactions among the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands that regulate stress responses, digestion, immune system, mood and emotions.
