Adrenocorticotrophin, also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. It plays an important role in the body’s response to stress and helps regulate various bodily functions.
Definitions
Adrenocorticotrophin is defined as a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete corticosteroids. It is also known as ACTH.
Origin
The word adrenocorticotrophin is derived from the Greek words “adreno” meaning adrenal gland, “cortico” meaning cortex, and “trophin” meaning nourishing or stimulating.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines adrenocorticotrophin as “a hormone of the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete its hormones.”
The Oxford dictionary defines it as “a hormone produced by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex.”
Associations
Adrenocorticotrophin is associated with the body’s stress response and helps regulate various bodily functions such as blood pressure, immune function, and metabolism.
Synonyms
The synonyms of adrenocorticotrophin include ACTH, corticotrophin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms of adrenocorticotrophin.
The same root words
The same root words as adrenocorticotrophin include adrenal gland, cortex, and nourishing or stimulating.
Example Sentences
- The pituitary gland secretes adrenocorticotrophin in response to stress.
- Adrenocorticotrophin stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
- A deficiency in adrenocorticotrophin can lead to adrenal insufficiency.