What is the Origin of Systemic Stress Defense?

This term is a conceptualization within stress physiology and psychoneuroimmunology, evolving from Hans Selye's original work on the General Adaptation Syndrome. 'Systemic' emphasizes the whole-body, integrated nature of the response, and 'defense' highlights the protective, adaptive role of these pathways. The concept underscores the body's innate ability to maintain stability through change.

What is the Mechanism of Systemic Stress Defense?

The defense mechanism is initiated by the HPA axis, which releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), leading to the pituitary release of ACTH, and finally, the adrenal release of cortisol. Cortisol then mobilizes energy reserves and modulates immune function to cope with the stressor. Simultaneously, the autonomic nervous system rapidly adjusts cardiovascular and metabolic activity. The effectiveness of the defense is determined by the speed and efficiency of the negative feedback loop that terminates the stress response.

Systemic Stress Defense ∞ Area

Systemic Stress Defense

Meaning

Systemic Stress Defense is the integrated, multi-system physiological capacity of the organism to perceive, counteract, and recover from acute and chronic stressors, maintaining allostasis. This defense relies heavily on the synchronized function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the autonomic nervous system, and the immune system. A robust defense is critical for maintaining long-term health, as a compromised system leads to chronic inflammation and metabolic dysregulation.