Neuromedins and their involvement in the regulation of growth, structure and function of the adrenal cortex.

Current data on the synthesis and the mechanism of action of neuromedins on adrenal cortex are presented. The localization of these biologically-active peptides in all components of the hypothalamopituitary-adrenal axis as well as their action on the adrenal cortex both in vivo and in vitro suggest their involvement in the regulation of growth, structure and function of the adrenal cortex. Neuromedins may exert both direct and indirect effect on the adrenal cortex. Direct effect is proven by the stimulation of glucocorticoid synthesis by adrenocortical cells in culture (NMK, NML) while indirect effects may be mediated by ACTH, vasopressin (aldosterone secretagogue effect) and angiotensin (prompt proliferative response) or by substances of medullary origin. The last mechanism of action is well documented for NMU.