What is the Origin of Stress Response Pathways?

This term is central to neuroendocrinology and psychoneuroimmunology, evolving from Hans Selye's early work on the General Adaptation Syndrome. The term 'pathways' emphasizes the multi-organ, hierarchical nature of the response, involving both rapid neural signaling and slower, sustained hormonal communication. Clinical focus is often on managing the chronic consequences of prolonged activation, known as chronic stress.

What is the Mechanism of Stress Response Pathways?

The activation mechanism begins in the hypothalamus, which releases Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH) in response to stress signals. CRH stimulates the anterior pituitary to release Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), which then travels via the bloodstream to the adrenal cortex, triggering the synthesis and release of cortisol. Cortisol, in turn, acts on target tissues to increase gluconeogenesis and suppress immune function, while also providing negative feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary to terminate the response.

Stress Response Pathways

Meaning

The integrated, coordinated physiological and neuroendocrine systems that activate in response to a perceived or actual threat to homeostasis, mobilizing energy resources and adapting the organism to cope with the stressor. The primary pathway is the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, which culminates in the secretion of glucocorticoids, notably cortisol, from the adrenal cortex. These pathways are essential for survival but their chronic activation leads to allostatic load and endocrine dysregulation.

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