What is the Origin of Stress Adaptation Physiology?

This concept evolved from Hans Selye's pioneering work on the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) in the mid-20th century, which established the stages of alarm, resistance, and exhaustion in response to stress. The term adaptation is central, describing the body's capacity to adjust and cope with challenges. Modern research integrates neuroendocrinology to refine the understanding of these systemic responses.

What is the Mechanism of Stress Adaptation Physiology?

The core mechanism involves the release of stress hormones, primarily cortisol and catecholamines, which mobilize energy reserves and heighten alertness to manage the perceived threat. Acute exposure triggers a coordinated neuroendocrine response to restore immediate balance. With chronic stress, the sustained activation of the HPA axis can lead to receptor downregulation and feedback resistance, resulting in dysregulated hormone patterns that negatively impact immune function, metabolism, and mood, reflecting a failure of the adaptive mechanism.

Stress Adaptation Physiology

Meaning

Stress Adaptation Physiology is the study of the complex biological processes through which the human body maintains allostasis—stability through change—in response to physical, psychological, or environmental stressors. This field encompasses the acute activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, as well as the long-term changes in endocrine and metabolic function that occur with chronic exposure. Understanding this physiology is crucial for assessing an individual’s resilience and identifying the point at which adaptation fails, leading to allostatic overload. The body’s ability to adapt is a key determinant of longevity.