Question

which hormone stimulates the synthesis of steroid hormones by the adrenal gland? thyrotropin-releasing hormone (trh) corticotropin-releasing hormone (crh) adrenocorticotropic hormone (acth) prolactin-inhibiting factor

Explanation:

To determine the hormone that stimulates steroid hormone synthesis in the adrenal gland, we analyze each option:

• TRH (Thyrotropin - releasing hormone) acts on the pituitary to release thyroid - stimulating hormone, not related to adrenal steroid synthesis.
• CRH (Corticotropin - releasing hormone) stimulates the pituitary to release ACTH, but it doesn't directly act on the adrenal gland for steroid synthesis.
• ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) is secreted by the pituitary and directly stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize steroid hormones (like cortisol).
• Prolactin - inhibiting factor regulates prolactin release, not adrenal steroid synthesis.

Answer:

C. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)