This presentations shows how Hypothalamus,Pituitary and Adrenal gland works together to perform various function of our body.

1. Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal axis By: Saddam Ansari Tbilisi State Medical University

2. Introduction HPA is also known as the limbic-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (LHPA axis) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-gonadotropic axis Complex set of direct influences and feedback interactions among the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenal glands

4. Continued… A major part of the neuroendocrine system that controls reactions to stress and regulates many body processes, including Digestion Immune system Mood and emotions Sexuality Energy storage and expenditure

5. Anatomy of HPA axis The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus secrete vasopressin and Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) Anterior pituitary is activated and ACTH is released.

7. Continued… The adrenal cortices, which produce glucocorticoid hormones in response to stimulation by ACTH. CRH and ACTH production suppressed (negative feedback cycle)

8. Functions of HPA axis Reduces proopiomelanocortin (POMC) cleavage into ACTH and β-endorphins due to reduction in CRH and vasopressin. But epinephrine and norepinephrine secreted by adrenal medulla will positively feedback to the pituitary and increase the breakdown of POMCs into ACTH and β-endorphins.

9. Continued… Sensory information arriving at the lateral aspect of the amygdala is processed and conveyed to the central nucleus, which projects to several parts of the brain involved in responses to fear.

10. Continued… Involved in the neurobiology of mood disorders and functional illnesses including Anxiety disorder Bipolar disorder Insomnia Post-traumatic stress disorder Borderline personality disorder

11. Continued… ADHD Major depressive disorder Burnout Chronic fatigue syndrome Fibromyalgia Irritable bowel syndrome Alcoholism.

12. Thank you