Corticotropin-releasing factor system (CRF system)

The corticotropin-releasing factor system is a central regulatory network for the physiological response to stress, primarily involving the peptide hormone corticotropin-releasing factor/hormone (CRF/CRH), its high-affinity receptors (CRF1R and CRF2R, both G protein-coupled receptors), related peptides (urocortins), and their binding proteins. Upon stress, CRF is released mainly from hypothalamic neurons and acts on the pituitary to stimulate the release of ACTH, leading to adrenal glucocorticoid production, which coordinates energy mobilization and suppresses non-essential functions. The CRF system also operates in peripheral tissues and throughout the central nervous system, mediating behavioral, autonomic, metabolic, and immune responses, and is implicated in a broad range of diseases including neuropsychiatric, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Other names

Corticotropin-releasing hormone systemCRH systemCRFergic system

Receptor agonism (CRF/CRH and related peptides activate CRF1R and CRF2R); Receptor antagonism (CRF receptor antagonists block downstream stress hormone release and signaling)