noun
- Plural of corticotrophin; hormones produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulate the adrenal cortex to release cortisol and other corticosteroids.
Usage: Also spelled corticotropins (U.S. variant); Medical/scientific term; Often abbreviated as ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) in clinical contexts
Examples
- Corticotrophins regulate the body's stress response by triggering cortisol release.
- The pituitary gland secretes corticotrophins in response to physical or emotional stress.
- Abnormal levels of corticotrophins can indicate endocrine disorders.
- Doctors measure corticotrophin levels to diagnose Cushing's syndrome.
- Corticotrophins play a crucial role in maintaining the body's circadian rhythm.