Dictionary > Corticotroph

Corticotroph

Definition
noun, plural: corticototrophs
The cell in the anterior pituitary that particularly releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), and lipotropin
Supplement
The pituitary gland is the master endocrine gland of the endocrine system. It is responsible for the production and the release of different hormones that regulate various physiological processes. The pituitary gland is comprised of the anterior and the posterior pituitaries bordered by pars intermedia. The anterior pituitary is the glandular portion and release hormones that regulate growth, reproduction, lactation, and stress. There are about five types of hormone-secreting cells in the anterior pituitary classified based on the hormones that they produce and secrete: (1) somatotrophs, (2) corticotrophs, (3) thyrotrophs, (4) gonadotrophs, and (5) lactotrophs.
Corticotrophs are the cells in the anterior pituitary that release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), and lipotropin. They constitute about 20% of the anterior pituitary cells.
Corticotrophs release ACTH (also called corticotropin) in response to corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) produced by the neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus and secreted via the hypophyseal portal system. The ACTH stimulates the adrenal gland to secrete glucocorticoids, MSH, mineralocorticoid, and androgens.
Also called:

  • corticotropic cell
  • corticotrope

See also:

  • anterior pituitary
  • hormone
  • endocrine system


  • You will also like...

    Digestion and Absorption of Food
    Digestion and Absorption of Food

    The gastrointestinal system breaks down particles of ingested food into molecular forms by enzymes through digestion and..

    Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
    New Zealand’s Unique Geographical History

    Explore why New Zealand has such unique flora and fauna, and learn why long periods of geographical isolation. This less..

    The Human Physiology
    The Human Physiology

    Physiology is the study of how living organisms function. Thus, human physiology deals specifically with the physiologic..

    Balanced Diet
    A Balanced Diet – Minerals and Proteins

    Proteins and minerals can be derived from various dietary sources. They are essential for the proper growth and developm..

    temperature - abiotic factor
    Abiotic and Biotic Factors

    This tutorial deals with the abiotic factors of the freshwater environment that determine what sort of life would be sui..

    New Zealand Flora & Fauna
    Ecology & Biodiversity: New Zealand Flora & Fauna

    New Zealand is known for its unique biodiversity, caused by its remarkable geography and geologic history. Breaking away..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics