Which gland is stimulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus to release cortisol?

Study for the NCLEX with quiz on the Endocrine System. Engage with multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and tips for success. Prepare for your NCLEX exam!

Multiple Choice

Which gland is stimulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus to release cortisol?

Explanation:
CRH from the hypothalamus triggers the anterior pituitary to release ACTH. ACTH then travels to the adrenal cortex, where cortisol is produced and released. So the gland directly stimulated by CRH to set off cortisol release is the anterior pituitary, because CRH’s action is on that gland to release ACTH, which drives cortisol production in the adrenal cortex. The thyroid and pancreas aren’t part of this cortisol-secreting pathway.

CRH from the hypothalamus triggers the anterior pituitary to release ACTH. ACTH then travels to the adrenal cortex, where cortisol is produced and released. So the gland directly stimulated by CRH to set off cortisol release is the anterior pituitary, because CRH’s action is on that gland to release ACTH, which drives cortisol production in the adrenal cortex. The thyroid and pancreas aren’t part of this cortisol-secreting pathway.

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