Which hormone is included among the stress hormones?

• A. Peptide hormones
• B. Prolactins
• C. Amino acid derivatives
• D. Corticosteroids

Answer: (D)

Stress triggers the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, leading the adrenal cortex to release glucocorticoids, the corticosteroids. Cortisol, the main glucocorticoid, plays a central role in the stress response by mobilizing energy (raising blood glucose), regulating metabolism, and modulating immune and inflammatory processes. Because corticosteroids are so closely tied to managing and sustaining the stress response, they are the hormone group most commonly described as stress hormones. Peptide hormones and prolactin are not primarily linked to the stress response, and while some stress effects involve amino acid derivatives like catecholamines, the corticosteroid category best fits the classic stress hormone role.