Keywords
depression
system
glucocorticoid
development
How to Cite
Abstract
Previous studies have shown how Hypothalamic-Pituitary-adrenal Axis dysfunction is related to early life stress; several works show that Hypothalamic-Pituitary-adrenal Axishyperactivity increases production of ACTH and glucocorticoids, indicating a pathophysiological key factor in stress related diseases like depression.
This review will discuss results of some epigenetical studies linking early life stress, decreased production of the glucocorticoid receptor and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-adrenal Axis hyperactivity. We conclude how early life stress modulates the expression of the glucocorticoid receptor affecting the development of several brain structures involved in the stress response.
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