How Stress Hormones Relate to the Body’s Internal Clock

Glucocorticoids are released in a diurnal pattern controlled by the circadian clock.

• Peak levels of glucocorticoids coincide with the start of the activity phase.
• The circadian clock in the hypothalamus regulates glucocorticoid production.
• A separate circadian clock within the adrenal gland influences its sensitivity to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
• Rhythmic glucocorticoid release may help synchronize the internal clocks of cells throughout the body.

Simplified