What is the Origin of Cortisol Hippocampal Atrophy?

The term synthesizes the hormone cortisol with the Greek-derived anatomical structure hippocampus, literally meaning "seahorse" due to its shape. Atrophy comes from the Greek atrophia, meaning "lack of nourishment." This concept emerged from neuroendocrinology research demonstrating the vulnerability of the hippocampus, which possesses a high density of glucocorticoid receptors, to chronic stress and excess glucocorticoid signaling.

What is the Mechanism of Cortisol Hippocampal Atrophy?

High cortisol levels bind excessively to glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) in hippocampal neurons, leading to a cascade of cellular events that compromise neuronal viability. This includes reduced glucose uptake, increased oxidative stress, and decreased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein vital for neuronal survival and plasticity. Chronic GR activation impairs the negative feedback loop of the HPA axis, further perpetuating hypercortisolemia and exacerbating the structural damage within the hippocampus.

Cortisol Hippocampal Atrophy

Meaning

Cortisol Hippocampal Atrophy refers to the detrimental morphological change characterized by the shrinkage or loss of volume in the hippocampus, a critical brain structure, specifically resulting from prolonged exposure to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The hippocampus is essential for memory consolidation and emotional regulation. Sustained hypercortisolemia, often seen in chronic stress or Cushing’s syndrome, can induce neuronal damage and inhibit neurogenesis in this region. This atrophy is clinically linked to cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and accelerated brain aging.