Adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment 1-17 human (ACTH) is primarily used in research and diagnostic applications to study the function and regulation of the adrenal cortex. It is often employed in laboratory settings to investigate the mechanisms of hormone action, particularly in relation to stress responses and steroidogenesis. This fragment is also utilized in clinical studies to assess adrenal gland function and to evaluate disorders related to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool in the development of assays and diagnostic kits for measuring ACTH levels in biological samples, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome.