ACTH: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH, Corticotropin) is a 39-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol and other corticosteroids, playing crucial roles in the stress response and cortisol regulation.

Mechanism of Action

Adrenal Stimulation

• **Cortisol Production': Stimulates cortisol synthesis and release
• **Adrenal Cortex': Acts on adrenal cortex
• **Steroidogenesis': Promotes steroid hormone production
• **Stress Response': Part of HPA axis stress response

Physiological Roles

• **Stress': Essential for stress responses
• **Circadian Rhythm': Regulates cortisol circadian rhythm
• **Metabolism': Affects metabolism
• **Immune Function': Modulates immune function

Research Applications

Medical Applications

• **Adrenal Insufficiency': Treatment of adrenal insufficiency
• **Diagnostic': Used in diagnostic tests (ACTH stimulation test)
• **Multiple Sclerosis': Research into MS treatment
• **Infantile Spasms': Treatment of infantile spasms

Research

• **Stress Research': Research into stress responses
• **HPA Axis': Research into HPA axis function
• **Cortisol': Research into cortisol regulation

Dosage

• **Medical': Dose varies by condition
• **Diagnostic': Standardized test doses
• **Administration': Intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous
• **Half-Life': Short half-life (10-15 minutes)

Side Effects

• **Hypercortisolism': Excess cortisol production
• **Hypertension': High blood pressure
• **Mood Changes': Possible mood changes
• **Weight Gain': Possible weight gain

This information is for research and educational purposes only. ACTH is a prescription medication.