noun
- A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol and other corticosteroids; also called adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
Usage: Also spelled corticotropin (U.S. variant).; Medical/scientific term.; British English spelling preference.
Examples
- Corticotrophin levels rise in response to stress.
- The pituitary gland releases corticotrophin to regulate cortisol production.
- A blood test can measure corticotrophin to diagnose adrenal disorders.
- Corticotrophin stimulates the adrenal glands during the body's stress response.
- Abnormal corticotrophin levels may indicate pituitary or adrenal dysfunction.