Adrenocorticotropin

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), also known as , is a critical polypeptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain . It acts as the primary chemical messenger that tells your adrenal glands to produce and release cortisol , the body’s main "stress hormone". Key Functions of Adrenocorticotropin

: ACTH travels to the adrenal cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal glands atop your kidneys) to stimulate the production of cortisol and some androgens. adrenocorticotropin

: Once cortisol levels rise sufficiently, they send a signal back to the brain to stop the release of both CRH and ACTH, maintaining a delicate balance. Clinical Importance Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), also known as , is

: It is a central component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis , triggering the release of cortisol to help your body respond to physical or emotional stress. : Once cortisol levels rise sufficiently, they send