Corticotropin-releasing factor
Corticotropin-releasing factor
Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), also known as corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), is a peptide hormone involved in the stress response. It is a crucial component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates various physiological processes including stress response, immune function, and energy metabolism.
Structure[edit | edit source]
CRF is a 41-amino acid peptide hormone. It is synthesized in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and is released into the hypophyseal portal system, where it acts on the anterior pituitary gland.
Function[edit | edit source]
CRF plays a pivotal role in the body's response to stress. Upon release, CRF stimulates the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary. ACTH then acts on the adrenal cortex to promote the synthesis and release of glucocorticoids, such as cortisol in humans.
Stress Response[edit | edit source]
CRF is released in response to stressors, both physical and psychological. It initiates a cascade of events that lead to the production of cortisol, which helps the body to manage stress by increasing blood sugar, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in metabolism.
Other Functions[edit | edit source]
Beyond its role in the HPA axis, CRF is also involved in modulating the immune system, influencing behavior, and regulating appetite and energy balance.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
CRF has been implicated in various disorders, particularly those related to stress and anxiety. Elevated levels of CRF have been associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
CRF Antagonists[edit | edit source]
Research into CRF antagonists is ongoing, as these compounds have the potential to treat disorders related to excessive CRF activity, such as anxiety and depression.
Also see[edit | edit source]
- Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone
- Cortisol
- Stress (biology)
- Anxiety disorder
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