Autoantibodies reactive to adrenocorticotropic hormone can alter cortisol secretion in both aggressive and nonaggressive humans

Abstract

It is accepted that aggressive behavior can be viewed as a strategy by humans and animals to cope with stress, implying that neurobiological mechanisms involved in stress responses should underlie both physiological and pathological aggression (15, 16). The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is a key system in the stress response, linking the brain to cortisol secretion via pituitary release of the ACTH. Both deficient and increased activation of the HPA axis have been associated with aggressive behavior. The molecular mechanisms underlying altered activation of the HPA axis that may predispose to aggressive behavior, including proactive violent aggression typical of murder, are currently unknown.