Neural correlates of acute task-related stress in humans: a systematic review and coordinate-based ALE meta-analysis.
Brain Imaging BehavOct 1, 2026 (epub)
Xinyi Zhang, Sijun Liu, Yuyi Zhang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and ALE meta-analysis examined the neural correlates of acute task-related stress using task-based fMRI studies. Analyzing 89 studies, the research identified a bilateral activation network associated with stress, highlighting areas such as the anterior insula and left amygdala. The stress > control analysis included 2,810 participants, revealing significant activation patterns.
Key findings
- Stress > control analysis revealed activation in a bilateral network including the anterior insula and left amygdala.
- The analysis included 85 experiments from 84 studies with a total of 2,810 participants.
- Control > stress analysis identified a single right parahippocampal-amygdala cluster.
- The findings suggest that stress-related challenges predominantly show activation increases rather than consistent deactivation.
Why it matters
Understanding the neural correlates of acute stress is crucial for clinicians, as stress is a significant risk factor for various psychiatric disorders. This knowledge can inform treatment approaches and interventions aimed at managing stress-related conditions.