Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
09:37
Chronic Stress Shifts Effort-Related Choice Behavior in a Y-Maze Barrier Task in Mice
Published on: August 13, 2020
Acute and chronic stress increase DHEAS concentrations in rhesus monkeys
Nicole Maninger1, John P Capitanio, William A Mason
1Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, CA 94143, USA. nmaninger@primate.ucdavis.edu
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|February 16, 2010
Summary
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels rise with acute and chronic stress in primates, unlike cortisol. This unique adrenal steroid offers a sustained measure of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity during prolonged stress.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Primate Physiology
- Stress Response
Background:
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is crucial for stress response.
- Glucocorticoids are well-studied, but dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), unique to primates, is less understood.
- DHEAS may offer unique insights into primate HPA axis function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the stress-responsiveness of DHEAS secretion in primates.
- To compare the DHEAS response to chronic stress with the cortisol response.
- To explore DHEAS diurnal rhythms and its response to dexamethasone.
Main Methods:
- Monkeys underwent daily chair restraint for 2 hours over seven days.
- Blood samples were collected at various time points during restraint sessions.
- Concentrations of DHEAS and cortisol were measured.
Main Results:
- DHEAS concentrations increased during acute stress (chair restraint).
- Unlike cortisol, the DHEAS response remained elevated throughout chronic stress exposure.
- DHEAS exhibited diurnal rhythms and showed enhanced suppression after repeated stress, indicating increased negative feedback.
Conclusions:
- DHEAS secretion increases in response to both acute and chronic stress in primates.
- DHEAS provides a distinct measure of HPA axis activity, paralleling cortisol in acute stress but diverging in chronic stress.
- These findings highlight DHEAS as a valuable indicator of primate HPA axis function under varying stress conditions.
Related Concept Videos
01:37Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
The response to stress—be it physical or psychological, acute or chronic—involves activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system because it involves both neuronal and hormonal communication. Its function is to regulate homeostatic systems—metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune—providing the necessary means to respond to a stressor.
01:24Physiological Foundation of Stress
Stress triggers a coordinated physiological response involving the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dual activation ensures that the body is prepared for both immediate and prolonged stress management. The process begins with the perception of a stressor. This initial phase activates the SNS, leading to the rapid release of adrenaline (epinephrine) from the adrenal glands.
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
01:19Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
Chronic stress has been linked to both the onset and progression of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Type 2 diabetes, a widespread chronic illness, is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both of which often worsen under stress. Studies indicate that men experiencing high levels of chronic stress face a 45% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with minimal stress. Stress triggers physiological responses that elevate blood...
01:27Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a multidisciplinary field that examines how psychological factors, particularly stress, interact with the immune system and impact physical health. Research in PNI has shown that chronic or traumatic stress can disrupt both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. These disruptions contribute to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases.
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
01:27Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Stress is a multifaceted response to events perceived as challenging or threatening, highlighting physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral reactions. Physically, stress can lead to fatigue, sleep disruptions, and various health issues such as frequent colds, chest pains, and nausea. Emotionally, it can manifest as anxiety, depression, irritability, and anger triggered by both minor and major life events. Cognitively, it may result in difficulty in concentration, memory, and...
01:30Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...