ACTH (11-24) – Neuroscience Peptides

C- terminal fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) also known as corticotropin, and competitive antagonist of ACTH receptor (ACTHR), also known as melanocortin type 2 receptor (MC2R). ACTH is a member of the melanocortins-peptide family, this tropic hormone is produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. ACTH is an important component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and is often produced in response to biological stress. ACTH acts to increase the production and release of cortisol via its interaction with ACTHR. Receptor activation increases the intracellular concentration of cAMP via adenylyl cyclase. Abnormal ACTH levels in the body have been linked to primary adrenal insufficiency/Addison’s disease, Cushing’s disease and secondary adrenal insufficiency.