Which brain structure is most notably affected by increased cortisol levels in depression?
Group of answer choices
- Amygdala
- Basal ganglia
- Hippocampus
- Cerebellum
The correct answer is: Hippocampus
Please contact distinguished papers for help with Question 17 NURS-6501N Advanced Pathophysiology or any other assignment.
Email: distinguishedpapers@yahoo.com
Explanation:
In depression, chronic elevated cortisol levels (due to hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis) have a neurotoxic effect, particularly on the:
- Hippocampus – A key structure for memory, emotion regulation, and stress response.
- Prolonged cortisol exposure leads to hippocampal atrophy (shrinking) via:
- Neuronal apoptosis (cell death).
- Reduced neurogenesis (decreased BDNF).
- Prolonged cortisol exposure leads to hippocampal atrophy (shrinking) via:
Why Not the Others?
- Amygdala: While hyperactive in depression (contributing to fear/anxiety), it is less vulnerable to cortisol-induced atrophy.
- Basal ganglia: More associated with motor control/reward processing; atrophy here is linked to Parkinson’s, not depression.
- Cerebellum: Primarily involved in motor coordination; not a primary target in depression.
Clinical Relevance:
Hippocampal atrophy correlates with worse depressive symptoms and cognitive deficits (e.g., memory impairment). Antidepressants may reverse some atrophy by promoting neurogenesis.
Thus, the hippocampus is the most notably affected structure.
