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Stress Hormone Cortisol

Meaning

Cortisol is a primary glucocorticoid steroid hormone synthesized and secreted by the adrenal cortex in response to signals from the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. It is essential for life, playing a crucial role in regulating metabolism, suppressing inflammation, and modulating immune function. Clinically, its diurnal rhythm and overall levels are key indicators of the body’s allostatic load and stress adaptation capacity.