ADRENOTROPHIN Meaning and
Definition
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Adrenotrophin, also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), is a peptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in response to stress. It is an essential component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress and maintaining homeostasis.
The term adrenotrophin derives from its function to stimulate the adrenal cortex, which is the outer layer of the adrenal glands. These glands are located on top of the kidneys and are responsible for producing a variety of hormones involved in multiple physiological processes. Adrenotrophin interacts with specific receptors on the adrenal cortex to promote the synthesis and release of glucocorticoids, such as cortisol.
The release of adrenotrophin is regulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) secreted from the hypothalamus. CRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to release adrenotrophin into the bloodstream, where it then acts on the adrenal glands, initiating the production of cortisol. Cortisol, in turn, exerts various effects on the body, including regulating metabolism, suppressing the immune system, and aiding the body's response to stress.
Abnormal levels of adrenotrophin can lead to disorders such as Cushing's syndrome, characterized by excessive cortisol production, or Addison's disease, which results from insufficient cortisol production. Therefore, adrenotrophin plays a critical role in maintaining the body's overall balance and response to stress.
Etymology of ADRENOTROPHIN
The word "adrenotrophin" is a medical term combining two separate roots: "adreno-" and "-trophin".
The prefix "adreno-" refers to the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are two small glands located on top of the kidneys, and they secrete various hormones that regulate many bodily functions, including blood pressure, metabolism, and stress response.
The suffix "-trophin" is derived from the Greek word "trophe" which means "nourishment" or "growth". In medical terminology, the suffix "-trophin" is often used to denote a hormone or substance that stimulates the growth or development of a particular tissue or organ.
Therefore, when combined, "adrenotrophin" refers to a substance or hormone that specifically affects the growth or nourishment of the adrenal glands.
Similar spelling word for ADRENOTROPHIN
