What is the Origin of Cortisol Reactivity?

The concept is fundamentally rooted in the study of the stress response, pioneered by Hans Selye's work on the General Adaptation Syndrome and further refined by modern endocrinologists investigating HPA axis dynamics. The term 'reactivity' specifically focuses on the dynamic, measurable change in hormone concentration in direct response to a standardized stimulus. This dynamic assessment provides a comprehensive understanding of an individual's stress-coping physiology.

What is the Mechanism of Cortisol Reactivity?

Upon perception of a stressor, the hypothalamus rapidly releases corticotropin-releasing hormone, which stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone. ACTH subsequently travels to the adrenal cortex, prompting the swift synthesis and release of cortisol into the systemic circulation. Cortisol then mobilizes energy reserves and modulates the immune system, with its subsequent negative feedback loop acting to regulate and eventually shut down the entire stress response system.

Cortisol Reactivity

Meaning

Cortisol reactivity is the precise measurement of the magnitude and temporal dynamics of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response following exposure to a defined psychological or physiological stressor. This dynamic assessment quantifies the body’s capacity to initiate a robust hormonal defense mechanism and its subsequent ability to return to a baseline homeostatic state. Clinically, altered cortisol reactivity patterns can signal chronic stress adaptation, HPA axis dysregulation, or potential metabolic vulnerabilities. It is a more nuanced indicator of stress resilience than static basal cortisol levels.

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Cortisol Reactivity

Meaning

Origin

Mechanism

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