Stress response system

The **stress response system** is not a single molecule or receptor but rather an integrated network of physiological pathways that coordinate the body's reaction to perceived threats or stressors. The two primary components are the **hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis** and the **sympathetic-adreno-medullary (SAM) axis**. Upon detection of a stressor by brain regions such as the amygdala and hypothalamus, these systems trigger rapid hormonal and neural responses—including release of adrenaline/epinephrine and cortisol—that prepare the body for "fight-or-flight" by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, energy availability, alertness, and modulating immune function[1][3][4][6][7]. Chronic activation or dysregulation of this system is implicated in various diseases including mental health disorders and cardiovascular conditions[1][3]. The term "stress response system" refers to this complex physiological process rather than any specific molecular target. Notes on correctness: The entry "Stress response system" does not refer to a discrete therapeutic target such as a receptor or enzyme; it describes an entire physiological network involving multiple organs, hormones, receptors (such as glucocorticoid receptors), neurotransmitters, and signaling pathways[1][3][4]. Therefore: - It is *not* considered a single therapeutic target. - It cannot be classified under standard molecular families like "receptor," "enzyme," etc. - No canonical abbreviation exists for this broad concept. If you are seeking information about druggable targets within this system—such as glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1), corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1/2 (CRHR1/2), adrenergic receptors—those should be specified individually.

Other names

Stress systemBiological stress responseHPA axis (when referring to a component)Sympathoadrenal medullary axis (SAM) (when referring to a component)