Neuroimmune Interactions in Pain and Stress: An Interdisciplinary Approach

Mounting evidence indicates that disruptions in bidirectional communication pathways between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral immune system underlie the etiology of pathologic pain conditions. The purpose of this review is to focus on the cross-talk between these two systems in mediating nociceptive circuitry under various conditions, including nervous system disorders. Elevated and prolonged proinflammatory signaling in the CNS is argued to play a role in psychiatric illnesses and chronic pain states. Here we review current research on the dynamic interplay between altered nociceptive mechanisms, both peripheral and central, and physiological and behavioral changes associated with CNS disorders.

Automated summary

The review focuses on the communication between the central nervous system and peripheral immune system in mediating nociceptive circuitry, highlighting the importance of this interaction in pathologic pain conditions. Elevated and prolonged proinflammatory signaling in the CNS is suggested to be involved in psychiatric illnesses and chronic pain states. Research on the dynamic interplay between altered nociceptive mechanisms and physiological and behavioral changes associated with CNS disorders is summarized.