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Neuroendocrine Adaptation

Meaning

Neuroendocrine adaptation is the coordinated, long-term adjustment of the nervous and endocrine systems in response to chronic physiological stressors, such as sustained caloric restriction, chronic psychological stress, or prolonged exercise. This adaptive process involves shifts in the set points and sensitivity of key hormonal axes, notably the HPA (stress), HPG (reproductive), and HPT (thyroid) axes, to maintain allostasis. While initially protective, prolonged or excessive adaptation can lead to pathological states, manifesting as hormonal deficiencies or resistance. It is a critical concept in understanding chronic health challenges.