Endocrine system gonadal hormones

Such events show how the immune, endocrine and central nervous systems are integrated in their responses to any form of stress. It is well established that physical or psychosocial stress causes increased secretions of prolactin, growth hormones, thyroid, and gonadal hormones, in addition to ACTH. Endogenous opioids are secreted under such conditions and function as immunomodulators, while also elevating the pain threshold. Receptors for such hormones exist on immunocompetent cells, along with receptors for catecholamines, serotonin and acetylcholine. 

Figure 33.2. Endocrine feedback loops of the mammalian hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. (Adapted from La Barbera A. R. Differentiation and function of the female reproductive system. In Boekelheide, K., Chapin, R. E., Hoyer, P. B., and Harris, C. (Eds.). Comprehensive Toxicology, Vol. 10, Reproductive and Endocrine Toxicology, Elsevier, New York, 1997, pp. 255-272 and Creasy, D. M., and Foster, P. M. D. Male reproductive system. In Haschek, W. M., Rousseaux, C. G. and Wallig, M. A. (Eds.). Handbook of Toxicologic Pathology, 2nd ed., Academic Press, San Diego, 2002,pp. 785-846. E2, estradiol T, testosterone, DHT, dihydrotestosterone, FSH, follicle stimulating hormone LH, luteinizing hormone.

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