ACTH accelerates recovery of neuromuscular function following crushing of peripheral nerve

Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)-treated adrenalectomized rats subjected to crush denervation recover sensation and functional movement sooner than saline-treated rats. Axonal regeneration is accelerated, the number of large endplates and the frequency of preterminal branching are increased. ACTH has no effect on either intact or denervated muscles. The ameliorative action of ACTH during regeneration is apparently neurogenic and independent of corticoids.