Neuroendocrine System Adaptation during Consecutive Extrinsic Stimuli: A Pilot Dynamic Study

Abstract

Overview

This pilot repeated measures study investigates the response of the neuroendocrine system in school-aged children to various external stimuli.

Findings

• The study evaluated the dynamics of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and their interaction with low-level inflammation in response to consecutive stimuli.
• The participants, 20 healthy children aged between 11 and 14, were subjected to an oral task, an arithmetic task, and a three-minute cellular phone call, each designed to simulate external stressors.
• Measurements included salivary cortisol and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), assessing their correlation and changes in response to the stimuli.
• Findings indicated variable responses over time, with a notable interaction between baseline inflammation markers and HPA axis response, suggesting potential health risks associated with repeated stress and electromagnetic field exposure from phone calls.

Conclusion

The study suggests that while baseline inflammation does not affect ANS dynamics, it does modulate the response of the HPA axis to external stressors. These findings underline the importance of considering the implications of low-level inflammation and electromagnetic fields on health.