APA Dictionary of Psychology

a neuropeptide produced by the hypothalamus that is important in the control of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal response to stress (see hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis). It controls the daily rhythm of corticotropin (ACTH) release by the pituitary gland and is also involved in a number of behaviors, such as anxiety, food intake, learning, and memory. Also called ACTH-releasing factor; corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH).