What is the term for the adrenal gland's response to stress that involves cortisol production?

The term for the adrenal gland's response to stress that involves cortisol production is the activation of the HPA axis, which stands for the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This axis is a complex set of interactions among the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands.

When a person experiences stress, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone then prompts the adrenal cortex to produce and secrete cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone. Cortisol plays a critical role in the body's response to stress by regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism and the immune response, ultimately helping the body manage the stressor.

Understanding the HPA axis is crucial because this system is fundamental to how the body reacts to stress and maintains homeostasis. It illustrates the intricate hormonal feedback loops involved in the body's stress response, highlighting the adrenal glands' important role in producing cortisol.