[Neurotropic action of adrenocorticotropic hormone]

The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced within the cell body of hypothalamic neurons by proteolytic cleavage of its large precursor molecule, pro-opiomelanocortin. These neurons distribute ACTH-containing nerve endings throughout the central nervous system. ACTH is able to evoke motor and behavioural responses and to modify neuronal metabolism. Since ACTH has been shown to regulate glucose uptake and utilization, its implication in the adaptative response to stress situations, such as cerebral hypoxia, deserves further investigations.