Final answer:
The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced by basophils in the pars distalis of the anterior pituitary gland, which makes option (C) correct. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids crucial for stress response and metabolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced by basophils in the pars distalis of the anterior pituitary gland. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete corticosteroid hormones, specifically glucocorticoids like cortisol, which play a role in the body's stress response, blood pressure regulation, and glucose metabolism. The release of ACTH is ultimately regulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus, but the hormone itself is secreted by basophils in the anterior pituitary, making option (C) the correct one.
The adrenal cortex is involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the long-term stress response among other functions. Under the influence of ACTH, the adrenal cortex produces cortisol, which has widespread effects on nutrient uptake, blood pressure, and inflammatory response. When cortisol levels rise too high, they enact a negative feedback loop, reducing the release of CRH and ACTH to prevent overproduction.