Choose the correct sequence of events following prolonged stress:
(a) Corticotropin releasing factor
(b) Adrino corticotrophic hormone
(c) Cortisol
(d) Immune suppression
Choose the correct option:

Correct option is C

The physiological stress response follows the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis cascade. Under prolonged stress, (a) corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is released from the hypothalamus, which stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete (b) adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then triggers the adrenal cortex to produce (c) cortisol, the primary stress hormone. Chronically elevated cortisol leads to (d) immune suppression by reducing lymphocyte production and inflammatory responses, increasing vulnerability to illness.

Information Booster:
● HPA axis: Central neuroendocrine system mediating stress response and adaptation
● CRF (CRH): Hypothalamic neuropeptide that initiates the hormonal stress cascade
● ACTH: Pituitary hormone that directly activates adrenal cortisol production
● Cortisol: Glucocorticoid hormone with widespread effects on metabolism, inflammation, and immunity
● Chronic stress effects: Prolonged cortisol elevation impairs immune function, cognitive performance, and cardiovascular health
● Relevant to health psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, and stress-related disorders