Stress induced release of ACTH from the pituitary gland
has no affect on the immune stem
causes release of cortisol from the adrenal gland which suppresses the immune system
leads to feser
increases the immune response
activates all the non-specific defense systems
Incorrect. Stress induced release of ACTH from the pituitary gland causes release of cortisol from the adrenal gland which suppresses the immune system. This can lead to a decrease in immune response, not an increase. While stress can activate certain non-specific defense systems such as the sympathetic nervous system and inflammatory response, it ultimately has an overall negative impact on the immune system.
The stress-induced release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland does have an effect on the immune system. Here are the step-by-step explanations of the effects:
1. Stress stimulates the hypothalamus, which in turn signals the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
2. ACTH then travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands, specifically the adrenal cortex.
3. In response to ACTH, the adrenal glands release cortisol, which is a stress hormone.
4. Cortisol has several effects on the immune system, including its ability to suppress the immune response.
5. Cortisol inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are important for initiating and coordinating the immune response.
6. Cortisol also reduces the number of circulating white blood cells, such as lymphocytes, which are crucial for immune function.
7. By suppressing the immune system, cortisol helps the body conserve energy and focus on dealing with the immediate stressor.
8. However, chronic or prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels can have negative impacts on the immune system and increase the susceptibility to infections and illnesses.
9. It is important to note that while cortisol suppresses the immune system, it does not completely shut it down. There are still other non-specific defense systems, such as physical barriers (skin, mucous membranes), phagocytic cells (neutrophils, macrophages), and natural killer cells, that remain active.
In summary, stress-induced release of ACTH leads to the release of cortisol from the adrenal gland, which suppresses the immune system. However, it does not completely eliminate the immune response and other non-specific defense systems remain active.