Hormone regulating the release of corticotropin from pituitary gland. Induces NLRP6 in intestinal epithelial cells, hence may influence gut microbiota profile (PubMed:23470617). Interacts (via C-terminus) with CRFR1 (via N-terminal extracellular domain). Expressed in parvocellular paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and in medial accessory olivary nucleus. Up-regulated during water-avoidance stress. Belongs to the sauvagine/corticotropin-releasing factor/urotensin I family.