Neuro-Inflammatory Pathways are the complex signaling cascades within the central nervous system involving the activation of resident immune cells, primarily microglia and astrocytes, in response to various stimuli, including systemic inflammation, infection, or chronic stress. While acute neuroinflammation is protective, chronic activation of these pathways is detrimental, leading to neuronal dysfunction, synaptic loss, and is implicated in numerous neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions. Modulating these pathways is a key therapeutic goal in hormonal and brain health.
Origin
This term is a core concept in neuroimmunology, tracing its origins to the discovery of the brain’s unique immune system and its critical role in both health and disease. Its relevance to hormonal health became clear with the understanding that chronic stress hormones like cortisol profoundly influence microglial activation. The pathways represent a final common route for systemic dysfunction to impact the brain.
Mechanism
Peripheral inflammatory signals, such as cytokines and lipopolysaccharides from a compromised gut, cross the blood-brain barrier and activate microglia. Activated microglia release pro-inflammatory mediators that impair synaptic plasticity and can lead to neuronal damage. This sustained inflammatory state disrupts the delicate balance of neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitters, contributing to hormonal axis dysregulation and cognitive decline.
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