What hormone is abbreviated as ACTH?

The hormone abbreviated as ACTH is known as adrenocorticotropic hormone. This peptide hormone is produced and released by the pituitary gland, specifically the anterior pituitary. Its primary function is to stimulate the adrenal glands to produce and release cortisol, a key hormone involved in the body's stress response and metabolism regulation.

Cortisol plays a critical role in various bodily functions, such as modulating inflammation, regulating blood sugar levels, and influencing memory formulation. The secretion of ACTH is regulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus, which is part of the body's feedback system for maintaining homeostasis.

Knowing the function and source of ACTH is vital for understanding its role in the endocrine system and its impact on health and disease, particularly in conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease, where cortisol levels are disrupted.