Advances in mathematical modelling of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dynamics and the neuroendocrine response to stress

Abstract

Stress is a physiological reaction of an organism to a demand for change that is imposed by external factors or is coming from within by way of physiological strains or self-perceived mental and/or emotional threats (internal factors). It manifests itself through the sudden release of a flood of hormones, including corticosteroids, into the blood, which rouse the body for action. Normally, stress is beneficial, but when lasting or being very strong, it causes major damage to our mind and body. Despite intense research, we still do not understand fully how the stress response axis, whose main function is to respond to challenges while maintaining the normal physiological balance, loses under prolonged exposure to stressors its capacity to maintain homeostasis. Recent applications of mathematical modelling and dynamical systems theory have enabled us to emulate complex neurochemical transformations that underlie the stress response, and help us to acquire deeper understanding of this dynamical regulatory network.