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The stress-hormone chain

The stress-hormone chain

  1. 1BrainThe hypothalamus senses a threat
  2. 2PituitarySends a signal hormone (ACTH)
  3. 3AdrenalsGlands above the kidneys respond
  4. 4CortisolRaises blood sugar and alertness

Off switch: cortisol tells the brain to stop the alarm. In long-term stress, this signal weakens.

Source: Chrousos, Nat Rev Endocrinol 2009

Text version

The stress-hormone chain (HPA axis). 1. Brain: the hypothalamus senses a threat. 2. Pituitary: sends a signal hormone called ACTH. 3. Adrenals: the glands above the kidneys respond. 4. Cortisol: raises blood sugar and alertness. Off switch: cortisol tells the brain to stop the alarm; in long-term stress this signal weakens.

From the topic: Stress

Sources

  1. 1.Stress and disorders of the stress system — Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 2009Review