Acth
ACTH
ACTH, or Adrenocorticotropic hormone, is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol, a hormone vital to many of the body's systems. ACTH is part of the body's response to physical or emotional stress.
Production and Function
ACTH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. It is released in response to a variety of signals from the hypothalamus, including stress, low blood glucose levels, and circadian rhythms.
Once released, ACTH travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. Here, it stimulates the production and release of cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate a variety of bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and the body's response to stress.
Clinical Significance
Abnormal levels of ACTH can lead to a variety of health problems. High levels of ACTH can cause Cushing's syndrome, a condition characterized by weight gain, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Low levels of ACTH can lead to Addison's disease, a condition characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure.
ACTH levels can be measured through a blood test, and this test can be used to diagnose conditions related to the pituitary and adrenal glands.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acth
- Wikipedia's article - Acth
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