ACTH

views updated May 11 2018

ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone; corticotrophin) A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that controls secretion of certain hormones (the corticosteroids) by the adrenal glands. Its secretion, controlled by corticotrophin-releasing hormone, occurs in short bursts every few hours and is increased by stress. An analogue of ACTH, tetracosactide, is given by injection to test adrenal function.

ACTH

views updated May 23 2018

ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone, adrenocorticotrophin, corticotrophin) n. a hormone synthesized and stored in the anterior pituitary gland, controlling the secretion of corticosteroid hormones from the adrenal gland. Its release is stimulated by corticotrophin-releasing hormone.

ACTH

views updated May 23 2018

ACTH

views updated May 23 2018

ACTH Biochem. adrenocorticotrophic hormone

ACTH

views updated Jun 11 2018

ACTH See adrenocorticotrophic hormone.