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.

A Dictionary of Biology

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.

A Dictionary of Nursing

ACTH

views updated May 23 2018

ACTH See ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC HORMONE.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

ACTH

views updated May 23 2018

ACTH Biochem. adrenocorticotrophic hormone

The Oxford Dictionary of Abbreviations FRAN ALEXANDER , PETER BLAIR , JOHN DAINTITH , ALICE GRANDISON , VALERIE ILLINGWORTH , ELIZABETH MARTIN , ANNE STIBBS , JUDY PEARSALL , and SARA TULLOCH