Cortisol, a marker of HPA axis functioning, has been widely studied in depression due to its links with stress and role in the development of the disorder. Depressed individuals often show elevated morning cortisol and an increased cortisol awakening response (CAR), although findings are somewhat inconsistent. CAR has stronger evidence of state-independence, as elevations are observed even in remission. Additionally, elevated cortisol levels have been found in healthy offspring of depressed parents and may predict the onset of symptoms. Overall, there is moderate support for CAR and morning cortisol as an endophenotype for depression.