Stress Response
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a direct effect of catecholamines released by the sympathetic nervous system during stress?

  • Increased blood clotting (correct)
  • Increased heart rate
  • Breakdown of glycogen into glucose
  • Dilation of airways
  • What is the primary role of the sympathetic nervous system in the stress response?

  • Initiating immediate, short-term stress response (correct)
  • Regulating immune function
  • Maintaining long-term stress response
  • Controlling energy regulation
  • What is the role of the amygdala in the stress response?

  • Releasing cortisol
  • Perceiving threats (correct)
  • Producing catecholamines
  • Stimulating the adrenal medulla
  • Which of the following hormones is directly responsible for stimulating the adrenal cortex to release cortisol?

    <p>Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of cortisol on the body during stress?

    <p>Suppression of the immune system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the HPA axis activation?

    <p>Release of cortisol from the adrenal medulla (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of adrenergic receptor is primarily responsible for the increase in heart rate during stress?

    <p>β-adrenergic receptors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the interaction between the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis in the stress response?

    <p>They work together, but each system has a distinct role (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a direct effect of cortisol on the body?

    <p>Enhanced digestive function (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Chronic stress can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease. How does this occur?

    <p>Both A and B (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these pairs correctly matches the response system with its primary function in stress response?

    <p>HPA axis - Regulating long-term stress adaptation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way can chronic cortisol secretion contribute to impaired memory function?

    <p>Chronic cortisol downregulates glucocorticoid receptors, leading to an inability to effectively manage stress responses and impacting cognitive function. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do glucocorticoid receptors (GR) play a role in chronic inflammation?

    <p>GR downregulation leads to an inability to suppress proinflammatory cytokine production. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key difference between acute and chronic stress responses?

    <p>Acute stress is short-lived, while chronic stress is prolonged and can lead to negative health consequences. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the stress response in the body?

    <p>Enhanced immune function (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) in the stress response?

    <p>Mobilization of energy reserves for immediate action (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following brain regions is primarily associated with heightened fear responses and emotional dysregulation in anxiety disorders?

    <p>Amygdala (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following neurotransmitters is specifically implicated in mood disorders due to its reduction in the presence of chronic stress?

    <p>Serotonin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does chronic stress impact the hippocampus, contributing to mental health issues?

    <p>It reduces hippocampal volume, impairing memory and emotional regulation, increasing the risk of depression and PTSD. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary effect of persistent activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) due to chronic stress?

    <p>Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, preparing the body for a fight-or-flight response (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of proinflammatory cytokines in relation to chronic stress and mental health?

    <p>Elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines contribute to depression, anxiety, and neurodegeneration, exacerbating the effects of chronic stress. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does chronic stress influence dopamine signaling, potentially contributing to mental health issues?

    <p>Chronic stress decreases dopamine signaling, leading to motivational problems and increased risk of depression and addiction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a documented effect of chronic stress on the brain?

    <p>Enhanced prefrontal cortex function, improving decision-making and emotional regulation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main mechanism by which chronic stress contributes to the development of major depressive disorder?

    <p>Prolonged activation of the HPA axis, decreased serotonin levels, and hippocampal atrophy, all contributing to depressive symptoms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Stress Response

    Physiological reaction to perceived threats, engaging SNS and HPA axis.

    Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

    Part of ANS responsible for immediate stress responses, activating fight-or-flight.

    Fight or Flight Response

    A physiological reaction designed to prepare the body to either confront or flee from stressors.

    Catecholamines

    Hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine released during stress for immediate energy.

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    Epinephrine (Adrenaline)

    A catecholamine that increases heart rate, energy, and readiness during stress.

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    Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis

    A system regulating the long-term stress response by releasing hormones like cortisol.

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    Cortisol

    A hormone released in response to stress, helping to regulate metabolism and immune response.

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    Adrenergic Receptors

    Receptors activated by catecholamines, including α and β types impacting blood flow and heart rate.

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    Cortisol Function

    Cortisol mobilizes energy and suppresses non-essential bodily functions during stress.

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    Gluconeogenesis

    The process of forming glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids.

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    Chronic Cortisol Effects

    Prolonged cortisol can cause fat accumulation, impaired memory, and immune suppression.

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    SNS Role

    The Sympathetic Nervous System prepares the body for 'fight-or-flight' response.

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    HPA Axis

    The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis regulates longer-term stress responses and energy availability.

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    Acute vs Chronic Stress

    Acute stress is short-term and beneficial; chronic stress is long-term and harmful.

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    Chronic Stress Impact

    Chronic stress can lead to mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

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    Cortisol and Inflammation

    Chronic cortisol downregulates receptors, increasing inflammation and cytokine production.

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    Chronic Stress

    A prolonged state of heightened alertness causing negative health effects.

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    Cortisol Levels

    Elevated cortisol due to prolonged stress impacts bodily functions.

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    HPA Axis Overactivation

    Continuous stimulation of the HPA axis leading to excessive cortisol secretion.

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    Hippocampal Damage

    Impairment of the hippocampus due to chronic stress affecting memory and emotions.

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    Proinflammatory Cytokines

    Molecules that promote inflammation, elevated in chronic stress conditions.

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    Amygdala Hyperactivation

    Increased activity in the amygdala linked to heightened fear responses.

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    Serotonin Decrease

    Lower levels of serotonin associated with mood disorders due to chronic stress.

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    Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

    A mental health disorder linked to chronic stress, serotonin reduction, and hippocampal atrophy.

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    Study Notes

    Stress Response

    • Stress triggers two major systems: the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis.
    • These systems work together to initiate the "fight or flight" response.

    Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

    • Part of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
    • Plays a role in immediate, short-term stress responses.
    • Activation Process:
      • The brain's amygdala and hypothalamus perceive a threat.
      • Signals are sent to the adrenal medulla via the spinal cord, triggering the release of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).
    • Effects of Catecholamines:
      • Increase heart rate and cardiac output.
      • Dilate airways.
      • Break down glycogen into glucose.
      • Redirect blood flow to muscles and brain.
      • Increase sweating.
    • Adrenergic Receptors:
      • Alpha-adrenergic receptors cause vasoconstriction and blood pressure regulation.
      • Beta-adrenergic receptors enhance heart rate, lung capacity, and muscle function.

    Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis

    • Responsible for the longer-term stress response.
    • Activation Process:
      • Perceived stress triggers the hypothalamus to release corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH).
      • CRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
      • ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol into the bloodstream.
    • Role of Cortisol:
      • Mobilizes energy by promoting gluconeogenesis.
      • Suppresses non-essential functions.
      • Inhibits the immune system.
      • Maintains blood pressure.
    • Chronic Effects of Cortisol:
      • Fat accumulation in the abdomen and trunk.
      • Suppressed immune function.
      • Impaired memory and hippocampal function.
      • Increased inflammation.

    Interplay Between SNS and HPA Axis

    • The SNS and HPA axis work together, with the SNS for short-term responses and the HPA axis for long-term regulation.

    Clinical Implications

    • Acute Stress: Adaptive response allowing individuals to react to dangers.
    • Chronic Stress: Can contribute to mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD; metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes); and cardiovascular disease.

    Pathophysiological Effects of Chronic Stress on Mental Health

    • Overactivation of HPA Axis: Leads to excessive cortisol secretion which can suppress the immune system and damage the hippocampus, impacting memory and emotional regulation.
    • Proinflammatory State: Chronic stress reduces the efficacy of glucocorticoid receptors, potentially leading to inflammation associated with depression and anxiety.

    Effects on Brain Regions and Neurotransmitter Systems

    • Hippocampus: Chronic stress reduces volume and impairs short-term memory and emotional regulation contributing to depression and PTSD.
    • Amygdala: Hyperactivation leads to heightened fear responses and emotional dysregulation, associated with anxiety disorders.
    • Prefrontal Cortex: Impaired function disrupts decision-making and emotional regulation, linked to major depressive disorder and PTSD.
    • Neurotransmitter Dysregulation: Chronic stress decreases serotonin and norepinephrine, contributing to mood disorders.

    Specific Mental Disorders Associated with Chronic Stress

    • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Linked to chronic HPA activation, decreased serotonin, and hippocampal atrophy; elevated proinflammatory cytokines.
    • Anxiety Disorders: Overactivity of the amygdala and disruptions in GABA receptor signaling; chronic stress can sensitize the autonomic nervous system.
    • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Reduced hippocampal volume, hyperactive amygdala responses and intrusive thoughts and hypervigilance. Dysregulated prefrontal cortex (inability to control fear).
    • Substance Use Disorders: Chronic stress can down-regulate the prefrontal cortex's control over impulses, which contributes to dysregulation of dopamine and glutamate signaling (promoting addiction).

    Clinical Implications of chronic stress

    • Clinical implications: Understanding chronic stress's role in illness highlights the need for early stress management interventions and pharmacological treatments targeting neurotransmitter systems and HPA axis regulation. Anti-inflammatory treatments are also important.

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    Description

    Explore the intricacies of the stress response, focusing on the roles of the Sympathetic Nervous System and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis. Delve into how these systems activate the 'fight or flight' response and the physiological changes that occur during stress. This quiz is designed for those studying human anatomy and physiology.

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