Peptide Database

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone · Corticotropin

ACTH is a 39-amino-acid peptide hormone released by the anterior pituitary in response to CRH. Its primary role is stimulating the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol, but it also has direct melanotropic and lipolytic effects. Synthetic forms (cosyntropin) are used diagnostically for adrenal insufficiency testing. Longer-acting formulations (H.P. Acthar Gel) are approved for multiple sclerosis relapses, infantile spasms, and various inflammatory conditions.