Which of the following hormones is secreted by corticotrophs in humans ?

Options

A. ACTH
B. MSH
C. PRL
D. Both (1) & (2)

Answer

To answer the question "Which of the following hormones is secreted by corticotrophs in humans?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Role of Corticotrophs**:
- Corticotrophs are specialized cells located in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. Their primary function is to secrete specific hormones.

2. **Identify the Location of Corticotrophs**:
- Corticotrophs are found in the anterior pituitary, also known as the adenohypophysis. This is important because it helps us determine which hormones are released by these cells.

3. **Know the Hormones Secreted by Corticotrophs**:
- The main hormones secreted by corticotrophs are:
- **Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)**: This hormone stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
- **Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH)**: This hormone is involved in the regulation of skin pigmentation.

4. **Evaluate the Options**:
- The options given are:
1. ACTH
2. MSH
3. BRL (not a hormone secreted by corticotrophs)
4. Both 1 and 2 (ACTH and MSH)
- Since both ACTH and MSH are secreted by corticotrophs, the correct answer must be option 4.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the hormones secreted by corticotrophs in humans are both ACTH and MSH, making the correct answer **option 4: both 1 and 2**.