NEUROINFLAMMATION AND ITS MECHANISMS RELATED TO PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Neuroinflammation is defined as the immune response responsible for protecting the central nervous system (CNS) from potential stressors. Interest in this phenomenon has grown due to its intrinsic relationship with mental disorders, which could reveal more about the pathophysiological processes of these conditions. However, little is known about its mechanisms, and further research is needed for a real understanding of the subject. Objective: To describe the physiological and pathological mechanisms behind neuroinflammation and its relationships with psychiatric disorders. Methods: This study adopted a literature review methodology, using the PubMed, Scielo, and LILACS databases. Records in English or Portuguese that addressed neuroinflammation or its relationship with mental disorders were included. Results: A large part of neuroinflammation is modulated by the action of astrocytes, which, according to research, have reduced functionality in psychiatric conditions such as major depressive disorder. In addition, neuroinflammation has deep relationships with hormonal discharges of the autonomic nervous system. High releases of norepinephrine by stressors stimulate the activation of inflammatory cytokines in the CNS. Chronic stress caused by mental disorders such as depression deregulates this response, causing an increase in inflammatory molecules. This molecular dysregulation increases oxidative processes that trigger neurotoxic and apoptotic mechanisms, which can further worsen already established psychological conditions. Final Considerations: Neuroinflammation is intrinsically linked to psychological conditions, as observed in the hormonal and cellular responses examined in psychiatric patients. However, it is still a process that has much to be studied, as its roots in mental disorders are still unclear in many aspects.