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Stress Response Epigenome

Meaning

The Stress Response Epigenome refers to the specific, measurable set of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone changes, that are dynamically altered in response to acute or chronic physiological and psychological stress. These changes occur at gene loci critical for the HPA axis, immune function, and neuroplasticity, effectively setting the long-term transcriptional ‘tone’ of the stress response system. Clinically, this concept explains how sustained stress can lead to enduring changes in hormonal sensitivity and overall systemic resilience, contributing to conditions like HPA axis dysregulation.