After synthesis and folding, POMC is transported in vesicles and processed in secretory granules before ultimately reaching the plasma membrane ( 5). ACTH synthesis has also been described in other organs, such as the skin ( 4). ACTH is exclusively produced from prohormone proopiomelanocortin (POMC), which is majorly synthetized in the corticotroph and melanotroph cells of the anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary gland and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. We believe it is worth re-evaluating the role of ACTH considering its noncanonical effects on the adrenal gland itself and on extra-adrenal organs and tissues however, this would not have been possible without the recent advances in the pertinent technologies.Īdrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was first described in 1933, and after nearly 20 years, it was demonstrated that this polypeptide hormone stimulates adrenocortical activity ( 1– 3). Conversely, if we broaden our vision and analyze its role as a potential treatment strategy in other conditions, it will be evident in the literature that researchers seem to have abandoned this aspect in studies conducted several years ago.

Finally, we focused on adrenal insufficiency.Ĭonclusions: The role of ACTH in maintaining the function of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis is well known. In the section on extra-adrenal effects, we have analyzed the effects of ACTH on the osteoarticular and reproductive systems, adipocytes, immune system, brain and skin. In the section on adrenal ACTH effects, we focused on corticosteroid rhythmicity and effects on steroidogenesis, mineralocorticoids and adrenal growth. Results: In the present review, we provide an overview on the current knowledge on adrenal and extra-adrenal effects of ACTH. Methods: We comprehensively reviewed English language articles, regardless of whether they reported the presence or absence of adrenal and extra-adrenal ACTH effects. Although ACTH clearly has an effect on adrenal homeostasis and maintenance of steroid hormone production, it also has extra-adrenal effects that require further elucidation. Introduction: Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced from proopiomelanocortin, which is predominantly synthetized in the corticotroph and melanotroph cells of the anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary gland and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome, Italy.

Valeria Hasenmajer Ilaria Bonaventura Marianna Minnetti Valentina Sada Emilia Sbardella Andrea M.

Hormones of the adrenal gland