Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Diagram | Cortisol Regulation Pathway #3460688 (License: Personal Use)

The diagram depicts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a critical neuroendocrine system regulating stress response. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn prompts the adrenal cortex to synthesize and release cortisol. Negative feedback from cortisol helps maintain homeostasis by inhibiting further CRH and ACTH secretion.

Used in medical education, endocrinology resources, psychology articles on stress, and patient-facing health websites explaining cortisol dysregulation (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease). Matches user intent for understanding stress physiology or diagnosing hormonal disorders.