One of the prime puzzles of chemistry is that biological dynamite, ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). Secreted in microscopic quantities by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain, it acts as a concertmaster, controlling by subtle hints of its chemical baton the equally subtle operations of the adrenal cortex. The cortex, properly stimulated, secretes hormones that control many activities of the body, including growth and reproduction.
ACTH, expensively extracted from the pituitary glands of cattle, also helps many a disease, such as arthritis, but the magic compound, unfortunately, is anything but simple. It...
To continue reading:
or
Log-In
