kortikotroper

Kortikotropin, also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is involved in the body's stress response. Kortikotropin stimulates the adrenal glands to produce and release glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, which help regulate metabolism, immune function, and stress response. It also promotes the production of androgens and mineralocorticoids. The release of kortikotropin is regulated by the hypothalamus, which responds to various stressors and physiological demands. Dysregulation of kortikotropin levels can lead to conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. The hormone is typically measured in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) in clinical settings.