The anatomy and physiology instructor is discussing the reactions of the body to stress. According to the instructor, what is responsible for the release of cortisol (hydrocortisone) during times of stress?

The adrenal glands are responsible for the release of cortisol.

Explanation:

Cortisol also known as hydrocortisone is a stress hormone which helps the body cope with stressful events and situations. It's release is triggered when the body finds itself in a stressful environment or in the presence of stress factors.

The release of cortisol from the adrenal glands involves various physiological activities which involves various important organs. These organs are the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland. This pathway is usually referred to as the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis.

When the body experiences a stressful event, corticotropin-releasing hormone is released from the hypothalamus. This hormone acts on the pituitary gland and causes it to release another hormone called the adrenocorticotropic hormone into the blood. The adrenal cortex detects the high levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone which acts on it to release cortisol for various metabolic processes particularly in stressful moments.