CHRONIC stress: The HPA System

Question 1

What does HPA stand for?

Answer 1

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal

Question 2

What hormone does the hypothalamus release to activate the HPA system?

Answer 2

Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF)

Question 3

Which gland detects CRF and releases ACTH?

Answer 3

Pituitary gland

Question 4

What is the function of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)?

Answer 4

To stimulate the adrenal cortex to release cortisol

Question 5

What part of the adrenal gland releases cortisol?

Answer 5

Adrenal cortex

Question 6

What is cortisol central to in the body?

Answer 6

Chronic stress response

Question 7

How does cortisol affect the immune system?

Answer 7

Suppresses the immune system

Question 8

What type of feedback loop regulates the HPA system?

Answer 8

Negative feedback loop

Question 9

Fill in the blank: The hypothalamus and pituitary reduce _______ levels to regulate the HPA system.

Answer 9

ACTH

Question 10

True or False: The adrenal cortex increases cortisol production when ACTH levels are high.

Answer 10

True