Which of the following hormones is produced by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in response to stress?

A Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)
B Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) ✓
C Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
D Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)

Explanation

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis produces ACTH in response to stress, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.

Mnemonic

ACTH = 'act' (action) + 'h' (hypothalamus) → action initiated by hypothalamus

Source

Berne and Levy Physiology
Hormones and Endocrine Markers Endocrinology Stress Response Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high