Neuroendocrine Integration of Stress and Reproduction
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 31
Special Issue Editor
Interests: behavioral endocrinology; physiological psychology; evolutionary psychology; sexual strategies; stress neuroendocrinology; reproduction; motor cognition; science policy; technology policy; innovation policy
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
This issue aims to explore the intricate interplay between the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in the regulation of stress and reproductive function. It seeks to deepen our understanding of how neuroendocrine responses to stress influence reproductive health and how these effects manifest at different stages of development. The scope covers the physiological, molecular, and psychosocial mechanisms by which stress modulates reproductive function, with attention to both male and female systems. Analysis includes hormonal interactions, neuropeptide activity, and epigenetic regulation, as well as consideration of the implications of these interactions in clinical and public health contexts. Special attention is given to developmental transitions such as puberty, reproductive maturity, and menopause. Topics to be covered include the following:
- Activation of the HPA axis by stress and its effects on cortisol release and reproductive hormones of the HPG axis.
- Bidirectional interactions between both axes, including the effects of cortisol on menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility, as well as the influence of gonadal hormones on stress reactivity and resilience.
- The impact of chronic stress on key aspects of fertility, including ovulation, spermatogenesis, and embryo implantation.
- The role of neuropeptides such as oxytocin, vasopressin, and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in mediating stress responses and modulating reproductive behaviors.
- Epigenetic mechanisms by which stress can alter gene expression, potentially affecting reproductive outcomes across generations.
- Influence of psychosocial stressors, such as socioeconomic status and social support, on neuroendocrine pathways governing stress and reproduction.
- Clinical implications of stress-related reproductive dysfunction, including conditions such as infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and erectile dysfunction.
Dr. Maria Bernardete Cordeiro De Sousa
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- HPA axis
- HPG axis
- stress and reproduction
- neuroendocrine regulation
- cortisol and fertility
- neuropeptides
- epigenetics
- reproductive dysfunction
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