Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a 41aa peptide derived from a 191aa preprohormone. CRH is secreted by the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus in response to stress. Marked reduction in CRH has been observed in association with Alzheimer disease and autosomal recessive hypothalamic corticotropin deficiency has multiple and potentially fatal metabolic consequences including hypoglycemia and hepatitis. In addition to production in the hypothalamus, CRH is also synthesized in peripheral tissues, such as T lymphocytes and is highly expressed in the placenta. In the placenta CRH is a marker that determines the length of gestation and the timing of parturition and delivery. A rapid increase in circulating levels of CRH occurs at the onset of parturition, suggesting that, in addition to its metabolic functions, CRH may act as a trigger for parturition.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.