What is the Origin of Neurocognitive Integrity?

The term combines 'neurocognitive,' relating to the mental processes of perception, memory, and reasoning, and 'integrity,' meaning the state of being whole and undivided. It is a concept central to clinical neuropsychology and longevity medicine, serving as a comprehensive measure of brain health. Its relevance to hormonal health underscores the brain's status as a major target organ for endocrine signaling.

What is the Mechanism of Neurocognitive Integrity?

Maintaining neurocognitive integrity relies on several integrated biological processes, including neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and cerebral blood flow. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone modulate the expression of neurotrophic factors and influence mitochondrial function in neurons. Furthermore, low levels of chronic inflammation and the efficient clearance of metabolic waste, particularly during sleep, are essential mechanisms for preserving the structural and functional connections that underpin cognitive health.

Neurocognitive Integrity

Meaning

Neurocognitive integrity is the state of robust, unimpaired function across all domains of the central nervous system, encompassing memory, executive function, processing speed, attention, and emotional regulation. It signifies a brain that is structurally sound, metabolically efficient, and capable of complex, sustained information processing. This integrity is deeply influenced by the stability of the endocrine environment, particularly sex steroids and thyroid hormones.