Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis and Glucocorticoids

This set of flashcards contains key vocabulary and definitions related to the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis and its role in stress response and hormone production.

Hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis

The neuroendocrine system involved in the stress response, regulating glucocorticoid production.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex that are involved in stress response and metabolism regulation.

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)

A neuropeptide released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates cortisol production.

Negative Feedback Regulation

A control mechanism where glucocorticoids inhibit the release of CRH and ACTH to maintain hormonal balance.

Corticosterone

A glucocorticoid hormone synthesized from cholesterol, involved in stress responses.

Protein Kinase A (PKA)

An enzyme activated by cAMP, involved in the signaling pathways of the HPA axis.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that mobilizes the body's fight-or-flight response during stress.

Catecholamines

Hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline that are released during stress to prepare the body for immediate action.

Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC)

A precursor protein that can be cleaved to produce ACTH and other peptides.