This suggests that increased CRH release in IBS, possibly due to chronic-stress related dysfunction of the mPFC/pACC inhibitory system, induces upregulation and/or overactivation of CRH1 receptors in the pituitary gland, similarly to the mechanism of CRH hypersensitivity in the gut (i.e., excessive ACTH secretion). Here, CRH is linked to irritable bowel syndrome.