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Cited by 255Stress Responses and CortisolNeuroendocrine regulation and behaviorNeurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior

Stress, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, and aggression.

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Mbiydzenyuy, Ngala Elvis, Qulu, Lihle-Appiah·2024·Metabolic Brain Disease
DOI 10.1007/s11011-024-01393-wPMC PMC11535056
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Abstract

This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and aggression. It provides a detailed overview of the physiology and functioning of these axes, as well as the implications for aggressive behavior. The HPA axis, responsible for the stress response, is activated in response to various stressors and can influence aggressive behavior. Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, play a crucial role in stress-induced activation of the HPA axis and have been implicated in aggressive tendencies. Chronic stress can dysregulate the HPA axis, leading to alterations in cortisol levels and potentially contributing to aggressive behavior. The HPG axis, particularly the androgen hormone testosterone, is also closely linked to aggression. Animal and human studies have consistently shown a positive association between testosterone levels and aggression. The androgen receptors in the brain’s neural circuitry play a critical role in modulating aggressive behavior. Interactions between the HPA and HPG axes further contribute to the regulation of aggression. Feedback mechanisms and crosstalk between these axes provide a complex system for the modulation of both stress and reproductive functions, which can impact aggressive behavior. Additionally,the influence of stress on reproductive functions, particularly the role of androgens in stress-induced aggression, adds further complexity to this relationship. The review also discusses the future directions and implications for clinical interventions. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying aggression requires integrating molecular, cellular, and circuit-level approaches. Translational perspectives, including animal models and human studies, can bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. Finally, therapeutic strategies for aggression-related disorders are explored, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions based on a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between the HPA and HPG axes. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the physiological and neurobiological mechanisms underlying aggression, with a specific focus on the interplay between the HPA and HPG axes. By elucidating the complex interactions between stress, hormones, and aggressive behavior, this research paves the way for future investigations and potential therapeutic interventions for aggression-related disorders.

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  • Research indicates variability in cortisol responses to trauma, with some individuals exhibiting hypercortisolism and others blunted or hypocortisol responses, depending on chronicity and severity of trauma.

    “Interestingly, research indicates variability in cortisol responses, with some individuals exhibiting hypercortisolism and others showing blunted or hypocortisol responses, depending on the chronicity and severity of trauma (Mbiydzenyuy and Qulu, 2024).”

    From From use to abuse: psychological, neurobiological, and spiritual pathways in relational harm and recovery (2026) · cites this paper as Mbiydzenyuy and Qulu, 2024

    In “Stress-induced activation of the HPA axis” (page unavailable), the paper says chronic stress may produce either heightened cortisol levels or blunted reactivity. “Impact of chronic stress on the HPA axis and aggressive behavior” (page unavailable) identifies childhood maltreatment and PTSD as examples associated with hypocortisolism. The copy does not establish that the differing responses depend on trauma severity. (LLM, conf=0.86)

    Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Cortisol dysregulation is a central feature of chronic stress exposure.

    “Cortisol dysregulation remains a central feature of chronic stress exposure.”

    From From use to abuse: psychological, neurobiological, and spiritual pathways in relational harm and recovery (2026) · cites this paper as Mbiydzenyuy and Qulu, 2024

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Cited by

Sorted by citations

Authors
Mbiydzenyuy, N. E., & Qulu, L.-A.
Affiliations
Stellenbosch University (ZA)
Corresponding author
Qulu, Lihle-Appiah
ORCID
Venue
Metabolic Brain Disease
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published
2024-07-31
Volume
39
Issue
8
Pages
1613-1636
ISSN
  • 0885-7490 (ISSN-L)
  • 1573-7365
DOI
10.1007/s11011-024-01393-w
PMC
PMC11535056
OpenAlex
W4401180250
Cited by
255
References
14
Citations by year
2026: 128 · 2025: 120 · 2024: 7
FWCI
9.79
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Metabolic Brain Disease (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Funders
Stellenbosch University
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Behavioral Neuroscience › Stress Responses and Cortisol
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience › Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior
Keywords
aggression, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, stress response, cortisol, testosterone, androgens, androgen receptor, chronic stress, reproductive function, neurobiology of aggression, therapeutic interventions
MeSH terms
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis, Aggression, Animals, Humans, Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System, Pituitary-Adrenal System, Stress, Psychological, Testosterone

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