The integrated, whole-body physiological reaction to any perceived or actual threat, mediated primarily by the coordinated activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system. This response involves the rapid secretion of stress hormones, particularly cortisol and catecholamines, to mobilize energy reserves and heighten vigilance. Chronic or dysregulated activation of this system leads to maladaptive changes in metabolism, immune function, and hormonal balance, accelerating the aging process. Modulating this response is essential for resilience.
Origin
This concept is a core principle of endocrinology and neurobiology, formalized by Hans Selye’s work on the General Adaptation Syndrome. “Systemic” emphasizes the body-wide, integrated nature of the reaction, and “Response” highlights the adaptive, though potentially damaging, nature of the physiological change. Its relevance in hormonal health is due to the potent suppressive and disruptive effects of chronic cortisol elevation on sex and thyroid hormones.
Mechanism
The response is initiated by the hypothalamus releasing corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), leading to cortisol secretion from the adrenal cortex. Simultaneously, the sympathetic nervous system releases norepinephrine and epinephrine. Clinical modulation focuses on restoring the diurnal rhythm of cortisol and enhancing the parasympathetic tone to improve the body’s capacity to return to a state of allostasis following stressor exposure.
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