HORMONAL RESPONSES TO STRESS | Hormone Response to Stress

Abstract

In teleost fishes, acute stressors induce a complex stress response coordinated by the brain and mediated via catecholamines, in particular adrenalin, and the corticosteroid cortisol. Adrenalin actions provide the energy for immediate action directed at survival, which is supported by actions of cortisol directed at reallocation of energy away from growth, reproduction, and the immune system. Cortisol further promotes adaptations increasing the stress resistance and restores the disturbance of the hydromineral imbalance, a phenomenon typical for stress in fishes. During chronic stress, adrenalin hyperactivity may result in cardiovascular problems and elevated cortisol in loss of body weight, reproductive failure, and reduced disease resistance. The endocrine coordination and interactions during stress involve almost all hormones. Marked individual differences in the stress response are related to past experiences and adaptations, inherent differences in stress-coping style, and maternal effects on the offspring.