Thyrotropin-releasing factor-induced adrenocorticotropin secretion is mediated by corticotropin-releasing factor

TSH-releasing factor (TRF), administered into the lateral cerebroventricle of adult male rats, elevated plasma concentrations of ACTH, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. TRF given iv was devoid of these activities. The CRF receptor antagonist, alpha-helical CRF9-41 (CRF9-41) given iv suppressed the TRF-induced increase in ACTH, but did not alter TRF-induced changes in plasma catecholamines. Intravenous administration of CRF antiserum totally blocked TRF-induced elevation of plasma ACTH concentrations. CRF receptor antagonists administered icv attenuated CRF-induced, but not TRF-induced elevation of plasma concentrations of ACTH, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. It is concluded from these results that TRF acts within the central nervous system to stimulate ACTH release through a CRF-dependent mechanism.