THE ROLE OF CRF AND VASOPRESSIN IN THE CONTROL OF ACTH

Two hypothalamic peptides with corticotropin releasing activity,
vasopressin and the newly characterized 41 amino acid ovine CRF have been
found in hypophysial portal blood at concentrations sufficient to stimulate
ACTH secretion. The goal of the research described in this proposal is to
elucidate the relative role of these peptides in the regulation of ACTH by
simultaneously measuring the hypophysial portal plasma concentration of
vasopressin and CRF under conditions associated with changes in ACTH
secretion. Included in the experimental models to be studied are
adrenalectomy, stress, and short and long loop feedback. The ability to
now measure vasopressin and CRF in portal blood should make it possible to
rapidly advance our knowledge of the CNS control of pituitary-adrenal
function and should make a major contribution to the understanding of the
homeostatic mechanisms involved in the response to stress.