Developmental programming and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martin, Wrivu N.; Pennell, Craig E.; Wang, Carol A.; Reynolds, Rebecca
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in endocrine and metabolic research. Volume 13(2020)
• Page Start: 13
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: DOHaD -- Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis -- Early-life programming -- Cardiometabolic -- Cortisol; Endocrine glands -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Metabolism -- Disorders -- Periodicals; Endocrine System Diseases; Metabolic Diseases; Endocrine glands -- Diseases; Metabolism -- Disorders; Periodical; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.4
• DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2020.07.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2451-9650

Abstract

Abstract: Humans, similar to many other species, exhibit developmental plasticity — the ability to modify the structure and function of key vital organs during specific developmental windows. Adverse exposures during these critical periods may alter organ function to enhance survival; however, over many years — these alterations may predispose toward chronic disease. The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis plays an important role in maintaining metabolic homoeostasis and coordinating the neuropsychiatric response to stress. Decades of animal and human research suggests that the long-term function of this axis may be particularly sensitive to adverse exposures during critical developmental windows. The aim of this review is to summarise the existing knowledge of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis programming in humans and briefly discuss its implications for long-term health.