Define adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Introduction
The major hormones secreted by the Adrenal glands are:
Cortex secretes steroid hormones such as Androgens, Mineralocorticoids (Aldosterone) and Glucocorticoids (Cortisol and Cortisone)
Androgen is main sex hormones in male. Aldosterone helps in regulation of blood pressure while Cortisol and Cortisone assists in regulation of metabolism.
The activity of Adrenal glands is basically controlled by the Anterior pituitary by producing Adrenocorticotropin hormone which stimulates the adrenal glands. Anterior pituitary also controls the activity of other endocrine glands such as thyroid glands etc.
Overproduction/hyper activity of Adrenal hormones can lead to the Cushing syndrome whereas the hyposecretion of adrenal hormones can lead to the condition termed as Addison’s disease.
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