What is the Origin of Stress-Response Hormones?

This term is a clinical grouping within endocrinology, directly linked to the function of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the adrenal medulla. The identification of cortisol and adrenaline as the key mediators of the stress response dates back to the early and mid-20th century. Understanding these hormones is central to diagnosing and managing conditions related to chronic stress and adrenal fatigue.

What is the Mechanism of Stress-Response Hormones?

Upon activation of the HPA axis, the adrenal cortex secretes cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts on nearly every cell in the body to increase blood glucose via gluconeogenesis and suppress inflammatory and immune responses. Concurrently, the adrenal medulla releases catecholamines, which act rapidly on the cardiovascular system to increase heart rate, blood pressure, and systemic blood flow. The combined effect is a coordinated physiological shift to maximize immediate survival capacity.

Stress-Response Hormones ∞ Area

Stress-Response Hormones

Meaning

Stress-Response Hormones are a class of endocrine signaling molecules secreted by the adrenal glands and other endocrine tissues that mediate the body’s physiological and behavioral reaction to acute or chronic stressors. The principal hormones include glucocorticoids, suchably cortisol, and catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine. Their function is to rapidly mobilize energy reserves and modulate the immune system to facilitate survival and adaptation.

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