ACTH and Related Peptide Sequences

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Introduction

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a linear peptide with α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and corticosteroid-like mid-leaf peptides derived from pro-opiomellin precursor. ACTH contains 39 amino acids, of which 1-24 are essential amino acids that constitute biological activity, and 25-39 are protective amino acids. The 20 to 24 residues of ACTH have a negative regulation of its bioavailability and are important for the action of corticosteroid-like peptides, while corticosteroid-like peptides can inhibit N-methyl-D-aspartate. ACTH is mainly produced from the anterior pituitary, and ACTH in the middle pituitary is mainly present as an intermediate of biosynthesis. In human body, ACTH is widely distributed in many tissues such as immune cells. The distribution of ACTH in the central nervous system is also extensive.

Mechanism of action

ACTH is an important member of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA) by increasing 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase and cholesterol side chain oxidase activity, promoting the synthesis of corticosteroids. ACTH is also responsible for the regulation of corticosteroids and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) to maintain normal HPA axis activity and promote adrenal gland development. ACTH has an effect on energy production and glucose metabolism by enhancing the activity of other enzymes. ACTH-related receptors are widely distributed in the central system and immune cells, suggesting that ACTH has a regulatory effect on both the immune system and the neuroendocrine system. In the nervous system, ACTH can not only increase brain gene transcription, but also promote synapse formation and regeneration at neuromuscular junctions.

Application of ACTH and Related Peptide Sequence

ACTH is a regulator of the neuroendocrine system that directly or indirectly affects the development of the nervous system, especially the brain. By binding to different receptors, ACTH activates known or unknown signaling pathways, promoting brain development during embryos. ACTH also repairs the damage caused by stress, hypoxia and ischemia. An in-depth understanding of the effects of ACTH will help to understand the role of ACTH in many neuropsychiatric disorders (such as infantile spasms), which has a significant effect on the treatment of related diseases and the development of other non-hormonal drugs.

References

1. Arnason, B. G., Regina, B., Anna, C., Lisak, R. P. & Mone, Z. Mechanisms of action of adrenocorticotropic hormone and other melanocortins relevant to the clinical management of patients with multiple sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis 19, 130-136 (2013).
2. Iwayama, H. et al. Spontaneous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) normalisation due to tumour regression induced by metyrapone in a patient with ectopic ACTH syndrome: case report and literature review. Bmc Endocrine Disorders 18, 19 (2018).