GENERAL HISTOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The principal effectors of the stress response are localized in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, and the adrenal gland. This collection of structures is commonly referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (Figure 1).

Detailed explanation-2: -The HPA axis has three primary components-the hypothalamus, the anterior and posterior pituitary glands, and the adrenal cortex.

Detailed explanation-3: -The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, or HPA axis as it is commonly called, describes the interaction between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are located just above the brainstem, while the adrenal glands are found on top of the kidneys.

Detailed explanation-4: -Your pituitary gland is connected to your hypothalamus through a stalk of blood vessels and nerves (the pituitary stalk). Through that stalk, your hypothalamus communicates with the anterior pituitary lobe via hormones and the posterior lobe through nerve impulses.