Our studies on CRF receptors confirm the established role of CRF in regulating pituitary hormone secretion and support a physiological role for endogenous CRF in regulating CNS activity. Studies to characterize CRF receptors and CRF-containing pathways in the brain provide a means for understanding the various functions of this neuropeptide in different areas of the CNS. Finally, the ability to identify and localize CRF receptors in postmorten human tissue provides a basis for studying the role of CRF in the etiology and pathophysiology of a variety of endocrine, neurological, and psychiatric disorders.