The immunology of stress and the impact of inflammation on the brain and behaviour

Exposure to acute versus chronic stressors and threats activates the immune system in adaptive and maladaptive manners respectively. Chronic activation arising from persistent stress exposure can contribute to an inflammatory response in the periphery and in the brain that has been implicated in stress-related psychopathology, including depression and anxiety. We review the immunology of acute and chronic stress exposure, integrate this discussion with the emerging literature linking heightened immune activation and inflammation to mood and anxiety disorders, and consider the translational implications of the immune system's role in these psychiatric conditions, with a brief overview of potential interventions.

Automated summary

Research suggests that chronic activation of the immune system due to long-term exposure to persistent stress may be related to stress-related psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. This review focuses on the immunology of acute and chronic stress exposure, linking it with mood and anxiety disorders.