Functions of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

What is Adrenocorticotropic Hormone?

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is secreted by the pituitary gland. It controls the body’s response to stress. Its release prompts the adrenal glands to generate cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” along with androgens, a group of sex hormones. Hormones act as messengers that convey instructions to various organs, muscles, skin, and tissues through the bloodstream. The pituitary gland, located below the hypothalamus at the base of the brain, controls the endocrine system. Adrenocorticotropic hormone has two parts: the anterior and posterior lobes. The anterior lobe produces and releases ACTH....

Structure of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) comprises 39 amino acids, with the initial 13, starting from the N-terminus, capable of forming α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). This shared structure contributes to the darkened skin often observed in Addison’s disease. Subsequently, ACTH undergoes cleavage, yielding α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and CLIP, a peptide whose function in humans remains unclear. In the human body, ACTH has a total molecular weight of 4,540 atomic mass units (Da)....

ACTH Test

The ACTH test is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol in the bloodstream. ACTH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. This diagnostic tool helps in identifying conditions characterized by either excessive or insufficient cortisol level in the body....

ACTH Normal Range

The normal range for Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level may fluctuate based on the laboratory conducting the test and the specific methodology employed for analysis. ACTH is typically measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). The timing of the test can affect the results significantly. Normal ranges for adults are 10-60 pg/mL (1.3- 16.7 pmol/L) for a sample taken in the early morning; less than 20 pg/mL (4.5 pmol/L) for a sample taken in the late afternoon. Deviation from these ranges may indicate high ACTH levels can suggest Cushing syndrome and low ACTH levels may be indicative of Addison disease or hypopituitarism....

Disorders of ACTH Hormone

ACTH disorders are primarily related to dysregulation in its production within the body, resulting in either elevated or diminished levels. These conditions are based on factors such as age and lifestyle alterations, leading to various heath complications in individuals....

Functions of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

The primary role of Adrenocorticotropic hormone is to triggers the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol. Cortisol, a crucial hormone, influences nearly all organs and tissue in the body. While commonly referred to as the stress hormone, cortisol serves numerous vital functions beyond regulating the body’s response to stress....

Mechanism of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) is secreted by the hypothalamus, stimulating the anterior pituitary to release ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). ACTH, in turn, acts on the adrenal cortex, promoting the release of cortisol and androgens. Elevated cortisol levels provide a negative feedback mechanism, reducing CRH secretion from the hypothalamus. ACTH interacts with G- protein-coupled receptors on the extracellular membranes of the zona fasciculata and zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex....

Conclusion – Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) holds an important place in managing the body’s reaction to stress and upholding diverse physiological processes. Derived from the anterior pituitary gland, ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol and androgens, influencing metabolism, immune responses and stress modulation. The regulation of ACTH secretion involves complex feedback loops engaging the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and adrenal glands, ensuring balance within the body’s internal environment. A comprehensive understanding of ACTH’s intricate functions offers valuable perspectives into different endocrine disorders and facilitates diagnostic and therapeutic strategies....

FAQ on Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

What is Adrenocorticotropic Hormone?...