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Glucocorticoid Stress Response

Meaning

The Glucocorticoid Stress Response is the critical physiological cascade initiated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, culminating in the release of glucocorticoids, primarily cortisol, in reaction to perceived physical or psychological stress. This adaptive response mobilizes energy reserves, suppresses non-essential functions like digestion and immunity, and modulates mood to prepare the organism for challenge. Chronic activation of this system is a central concern in longevity medicine.