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Changes in hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis following transient ischemic attack
Djordje Radak1, Ivana Resanovic2, Esma R Isenovic3
1Department of Vascular Surgery, Dedinje Cardiovascular Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
Angiology
|September 26, 2013
Summary
Transient ischemic attacks cause brain ischemia, affecting the central nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Understanding these HPA axis changes is crucial for improving stroke prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Acute brain ischemia, often from transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), triggers complex central nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responses.
- The brain's susceptibility to ischemia leads to reversible morphological and chemical changes, impacting HPA axis function through unclear mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which brain ischemia-induced stress responses modify HPA axis function.
- To investigate the role of HPA axis activation in modulating the long-term prognosis following stroke.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on brain ischemia, HPA axis responses, and neurohormonal regulation.
- Analysis of studies investigating the effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone, vasopressin (AVP), and glucocorticoids in ischemic conditions.
Main Results:
- Brain ischemia induces stress responses that alter HPA axis morphology and chemistry.
- Activation of hormones like AVP and cortisol during ischemia can lead to neurohormonal dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Changes in the HPA axis are integral to the pathophysiology of brain ischemia.
- HPA axis dysfunction following ischemia may worsen long-term stroke outcomes, highlighting therapeutic targets.
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