The clinically observed and mechanistically linked phenomenon where chronic, low-grade elevation of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune mediators negatively impacts executive function, memory, and overall cognitive processing. This connection underscores the critical neuro-immune-endocrine axis, highlighting how peripheral inflammatory status can directly compromise central nervous system function. Mitigating systemic inflammation is therefore a key, foundational strategy for long-term cognitive health and neuro-longevity.
Origin
This concept is a major focus in contemporary neuroimmunology and gerontology, arising from the consistent clinical observation that elevated inflammatory biomarkers, such as C-reactive protein and IL-6, strongly correlate with cognitive decline and increased neurodegenerative risk. The term emphasizes the ‘Systemic’ nature of the inflammation, meaning it originates peripherally but exerts a profound and measurable effect on the brain.
Mechanism
Systemic inflammation compromises the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, allowing peripheral immune cells and inflammatory cytokines to infiltrate the central nervous system parenchyma. These mediators actively activate resident glial cells, leading to localized neuroinflammation and the disruption of synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. Furthermore, inflammatory signaling can directly interfere with neurotransmitter synthesis and receptor function, collectively impairing the neural circuitry required for efficient memory, attention, and executive cognitive tasks.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.