General Notes
Cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone synthesized from cholesterol by the adrenal cortex, is released in response to pituitary adenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) which is, in turn, regulated by corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF). High levels of cortisol act to regulate the release of ACTH and CRF via negative feedback inhibition. The release of cortisol stimulates the conversion of proteins to carbohydrates, raises blood sugar levels and promotes glycogen storage in the liver
