Which hormone is responsible for the secretion of glucocorticoids from the adrenal cortex?

The hormone responsible for the secretion of glucocorticoids from the adrenal cortex is ACTH, also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone or corticotropin. ACTH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress. When the body is under stress, ACTH is released into the bloodstream, stimulating the adrenal cortex to produce and release glucocorticoids, primarily cortisol. Glucocorticoids are essential for several bodily functions, including metabolism regulation, immune response modulation, and maintaining blood pressure.

Understanding the role of ACTH in hormone regulation is fundamental in the study of the endocrine system, particularly in how the body manages stress and maintains homeostasis. The other hormones mentioned do not have a direct role in stimulating the adrenal cortex to produce glucocorticoids, making ACTH the correct choice for this question.