What stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce hormones?

The adrenal cortex is stimulated to produce hormones primarily by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. ACTH specifically acts on the adrenal cortex to promote the synthesis and release of corticosteroids, including cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. This process is crucial for regulating metabolism, immune response, and maintaining blood pressure.

In contrast, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and growth hormone (GH) target different endocrine glands and play various roles in the body. FSH is involved in reproductive processes, TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, and GH affects growth and metabolism. None of these hormones directly influence the adrenal cortex in the same way that ACTH does.