Other Parameters

EDTA-Plasma

The plasma should be promptly separated, preferably in a refrigerated centrifuge, and stored at -20°C or below. EDTA plasma samples may be stored at 2 - 8°C for a maximum of 8 hours. EDTA plasma samples, frozen at -20°C, are stable for a maximum of 4 months.

7.0 - 63.0 pg/ml

Human, mouse, rat

No cross-reaction with ACTH (1-24), ACTH (18-39), alpha-MSH, beta-endorphin.

ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) or corticotropin is a peptide hormone (MW 4500 Da) secreted by the pituitary to regulate the production of steroid hormones by the adrenal cortex. ACTH increases the synthesis and release of all adrenal steroids like aldosterone, cortisol and adrenal androgens. It is the principal modulator of cortisol, the most important glucocorticoid in man. When the cortisol level in blood increases, release of ACTH is inhibited directly at the pituitary level. By the same mechanism, decreasing cortisol levels lead to elevated ACTH levels.
Plasma ACTH assays are useful in the differential diagnosis of pituitary Cushing’s disease, Addison’s disease, autonomous ACTH producing pituitary tumors (e.g. Nelson’s syndrome), hypopituitarism with ACTH deficiency and ectopic ACTH syndrome.