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Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Endocrine Pathway

The endocrine signaling pathway starts at the hypothalamus releasing corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) to the pituitary, which responds by secreting adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) into the bloodstream that then causes the adrenals to release cortisol into the bloodstream.

The hormone cortisol functions to help the body respond to stress and women in the third trimester of pregnancy have high levels of this hormone.


Links: Hypothalamus Development | Pituitary Development | Adrenal Development

Cortisol Functions

  • helping maintain blood pressure and cardiovascular function
  • reducing the immune system’s inflammatory response
  • balancing the effects of insulin, which breaks down glucose for energy
  • regulating the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats


Image Source: http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/cushings/cushings.htm http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/cushings/images/cushingsFinalmac.jpg

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current13:51, 3 November 2010Thumbnail for version as of 13:51, 3 November 2010490 × 516 (31 KB)S8600021 (talk | contribs)==Hypothalamus Pituitary Adrenal Endocrine Pathway== The endocrine signaling pathway starts at the hypothalamus releasing corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) to the pituitary, which responds by secreting adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) into the bloo

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