in rodents) are gene transcription factors (i.e., influence gene expression; Meijer, 2006), that can be measured non-invasively in young children. GCs are permissive, their presence allowing or enhancing other neural, molecular, or biochemical events. Acutely elevated GCs help to terminate fight/flight physiological and behavioral responses. However, when GCs and/or CRH remain elevated for prolonged periods, this threatens neuronal viability and increases the risk of stress-related disorders (De Kloet et al., 1996; McEwen, 2000).
