What is "thyrotropin-releasing factor"?

Thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF), also known as thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus that regulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland. TRF acts as a stimulant for the secretion of TSH, which in turn stimulates the production and release of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland. TRF is an essential component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, which controls the function of the thyroid gland and the levels of thyroid hormones in the body. Imbalances in TRF can lead to dysregulation of the thyroid gland and contribute to thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.