ACTH and the Regulation of Adrenocortical Secretion

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Abstract
THE secretion of the adrenal cortex is in large part regulated by ACTH from the pituitary gland. However, the cortex is really a two-part gland, and the effect of ACTH on one part is different from its effect on the other. This fact has interesting consequences in terms of both normal function and the pathophysiology of adrenocortical disease.Adrenocortical hormones are conveniently divided into three categories: glucocorticoids, which exert their effects primarily on carbohydrate and protein metabolism; mineralocorticoids, which regulate sodium and potassium metabolism; and sex hormones, which supplement the actions of the androgens and estrogens secreted by the gonads. . . .