The Effects of Genes on the Stress Response

Authors

S. Andrew Aston, Brigham Young University

Keywords

effects of genes, stress response, corticotropin-releasing hormone, CRH

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Psychology

Abstract

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) acts as one of the primary coordinators of the physiological, behavioral, and autonomic stress response. CRH secreted from the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus initiates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response by signaling the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary. ACTH then travels to the adrenal glands, leading to the release of cortisol Thus, CRH plays a key role in preparing an individual to adaptively respond to a stressful situation.

Recommended Citation

Aston, S. Andrew (2015) "The Effects of Genes on the Stress Response," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2015: Iss. 1, Article 64.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2015/iss1/64