Neuroendocrine and Cardiovascular
Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor signalling
Activation of corticotropin-releasing factor receptors by urocortin-family peptides.
Biological pathway
Urocortin can activate CRF1 and CRF2 receptors, increasing cyclic AMP and influencing stress responses, appetite, vascular tone and cardiac function.
Evidence summary
Receptor pharmacology is well established, and controlled human infusion studies demonstrate acute endocrine and haemodynamic effects.
Limitations
Effects differ by receptor subtype, tissue, dose and infusion duration; acute target engagement does not establish long-term therapeutic benefit.