ACTH stimulates glucocorticoid secretion from the cortex of which gland?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Pituitary gland
• C. Pancreas
• D. Adrenal glands

Answer: (D)

ACTH is the pituitary hormone that targets the adrenal cortex, stimulating the production and release of glucocorticoids, mainly cortisol. The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys, and their cortex is the site where glucocorticoids are synthesized in response to ACTH. These hormones help regulate metabolism, stress responses, and immune function, and cortisol provides negative feedback to keep the system in balance. The other glands listed do not produce glucocorticoids in response to ACTH: the thyroid makes thyroid hormones, the pancreas makes insulin and glucagon, and while the pituitary secretes ACTH, it’s the adrenal cortex that releases glucocorticoids.