Recombinant Human CRF protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) also known as corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a peptide hormone involved in the stress response. This protein with a mass of approximately 41 kDa is predominantly produced in the hypothalamus and later secreted into the bloodstream. CRF plays an important role in activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stimulating the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary gland. Its expression extends beyond the hypothalamus being present in peripheral tissues such as the adrenal glands and gastrointestinal tract.

Biological function summary

Corticotropin-releasing factor functions as a central coordinator of the body's response to stress. CRF engages several receptors including CRF receptors type 1 and 2 which mediate its actions. It forms part of a larger complex involving several other binding proteins that regulate its availability and receptor affinity. By interacting with these receptors CRF modulates diverse physiological processes such as immune responses and energy balance ensuring the maintenance of homeostasis under stress conditions.

Pathways

Corticotropin-releasing factor orchestrates important signaling within the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the stress response pathways. CRF is pivotal in the activation of various signaling cascades that influence the production of glucocorticoids like cortisol. Within these pathways CRF interacts closely with proteins such as ACTH which acts downstream of CRF to potentiate adrenal corticosteroid synthesis. Another related cascade involves CRF in neuroendocrine signaling affecting neurotransmitter release and influencing behaviors related to stress and anxiety.

Corticotropin-releasing factor is heavily implicated in depression and anxiety disorders. Alterations in CRF expression and receptor sensitivity have been associated with the pathophysiology of these conditions. For instance abnormal CRF signaling can lead to elevated stress hormone levels contributing to mood disorders. CRF also connects to proteins like the glucocorticoid receptor influencing how the body processes stress-related hormones and impacting the development and progression of stress-related psychiatric disorders.