ACTH Full Form

What is the full form of ACTH?

The full form of ACTH is Adrenocorticotropic Hormone. Adrenocorticotrophin, serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, arginine vasopressin, and corticotropin are other synonyms for ACTH. It is a polypeptide tropic hormone that the anterior pituitary gland produces and secretes. Additionally, it serves as a diagnostic tool and a medication.

When the body is under stress, ACTH, a crucial part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, is frequently produced (along with its precursor corticotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus). In many organisms, ACTH is connected to the circadian rhythm. The adrenal cortex's enhanced production and release of cortisol are its main consequences. Cortisol is important in dealing with stress and infection, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, and controlling the body's metabolism.

Synthesis of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

The pituitary gland is stimulated by the hypothalamic hormone corticotrophin-releasing hormone to release adrenocorticotropic hormone. The circulation carries the released adrenocorticotropic hormone to the adrenal glands. The hypothalamus receives cortisol from the adrenal glands to stop the cycle. The anterior pituitary gland's basophilic cells create ACTH, which is then released into the bloodstream and circulated throughout the body.

Similar to cortisol, levels of the adrenocorticotropic hormone are often highest when we first get up and gradually decline throughout the day, peaking during sleep. The secretion of ACTH is controlled by hypothalamus, pituitary gland and adrenal glands.

Activities of the ACTH Hormone

• Resorption of bone

• Breakdown of proteins

• Stimulate male spermatogenesis

• Glucose metabolism, androgen metabolism, lipolysis, hyperglycemia, and immunosuppression.