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Target intelligence / Profile preview
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)
- Target
- ACTH
- Molecular classification
- Peptide hormone, Polypeptide
01
Overview
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), also known as corticotropin, is a peptide hormone produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It is a key component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and plays a crucial role in regulating the body's response to stress. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize and secrete glucocorticoids, mainly cortisol, and also androgens. ACTH secretion is controlled by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus and is subject to negative feedback regulation by cortisol. High or low ACTH levels are diagnostic for various endocrine disorders, including Cushing’s and Addison’s diseases.
- Other names
- CorticotropinAdrenocorticotropin
02
Mechanism of action
ACTH binds to the melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R) on adrenocortical cells, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing intracellular cAMP levels, leading to the synthesis and secretion of glucocorticoids (primarily cortisol).
03
Biological functions
Stimulates adrenal cortex steroidogenesisRegulates metabolismModulates immune responseRegulates blood pressureMediates stress responseControls inflammationRegulates glucose
04
Disease associations
Cushing’s diseaseCushing’s syndromeAddison’s diseaseAdrenal insufficiencyPituitary dysfunctionHypopituitarismSmall cell lung carcinomaEctopic ACTH syndrome
05
Safety considerations
Adrenal suppression with prolonged exogenous corticosteroid useHyperpigmentationElectrolyte imbalancesHyperglycemiaImmunosuppression
06
Interacting drugs
Exogenous corticosteroids
3 more in the full profile.
07
Biomarkers
Plasma ACTH levelsCortisol levelsCRH stimulation testDexamethasone suppression test
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