How is ACTH 1-34 different from cognitive ACTH fragments?

ACTH 1-34 retains full corticotropic activity and stimulates cortisol, whereas short fragments like ACTH(4-7) have nootropic effects without stimulating the adrenal glands.

What is it used for clinically?

Synthetic ACTH peptides are used to test adrenal function and, in some formulations, to treat inflammatory or seizure conditions through corticosteroid and melanocortin pathways.

Why is its research status clinical?

Synthetic ACTH analogs such as tetracosactide and cosyntropin are established clinical agents used in approved diagnostic and therapeutic settings.

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ACTH 1-34

Also known as: ACTH 1-34, Tetracosactide

A synthetic peptide comprising the first 24-34 N-terminal residues of adrenocorticotropic hormone (tetracosactide/cosyntropin family), which retains full corticotropic activity. It is used clinically to stimulate adrenal cortisol production and diagnostically to test adrenal function.

Mechanism of Action

The biologically active N-terminal portion of ACTH binds the melanocortin-2 receptor (MC2R) on adrenal cortex cells, activating adenylate cyclase and cyclic AMP signaling. This drives steroidogenesis, increasing synthesis and release of cortisol and other glucocorticoids. The peptide reproduces the full corticotropic activity of native ACTH because the first ~24 residues contain the receptor-activating sequence. It also engages other melanocortin receptors, contributing to anti-inflammatory and pigmentary effects.

Half-life: Short; roughly 15 minutes to a few hours depending on formulation
Administration Routes: subcutaneous
Research Status: Clinical