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Main features of pituitary-adrenal system are that the hypothalamus communicates with the 

pituitary gland causing it to release ACTH. This hormone is then detected in the bloodstream 

by the adrenal cortex, which then releases corticosteroids such as cortisol and 

corticosterone. The corticosteroids have a range of effects such as causing the liver to 

release glucose.

Main features of the Sympathomedullary pathway are that the hypothalamus activates the 

sympathetic nervous system, which then stimulates the adrenal medulla to release the 

hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline into the bloodstream. This gets the body ready for 

fight-or-flight, eg increase blood pressure and heart rate.