Understanding the Impact of Inflammation on the Brain: Transdiagnostic Implications-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

Pdf Summary

This document is a presentation on the impact of inflammation on the brain and its transdiagnostic implications in mental health disorders. The presentation discusses the role of inflammation as a natural response to infection or injury, but highlights how chronic or excessive inflammation can cause damage to the brain. It explores various factors that contribute to chronic inflammation, such as obesity, sedentary activity, stress, aging, and medical treatments.<br /><br />The presentation provides evidence on the effects of inflammation on brain function, including its association with symptoms such as anhedonia and psychomotor slowing. It discusses the impact of inflammation on the basal ganglia and its effects on glucose metabolism, neurocircuitry connectivity, and dopamine release. The presentation also highlights the link between inflammation and various mental health disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and neurodegenerative disorders.<br /><br />Furthermore, the presentation discusses the potential use of anti-inflammatory agents as novel approaches to treatment. It mentions various inhibitors and targeted therapies that have shown promise in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in depression, schizophrenia, and other disorders. However, it also acknowledges the challenges faced in anti-inflammatory drug trials, including issues with study design, outcome measures, and off-target effects.<br /><br />The presentation concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to better understand the complex relationship between inflammation and mental health disorders. It suggests the consideration of downstream effects of inflammation, such as effects on dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems, as well as exploring the role of immunometabolism. The possibility of incorporating checking C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a standard of care is also mentioned. The presentation concludes by inviting questions from the audience.

Keywords

inflammation

brain

transdiagnostic implications

mental health disorders

chronic inflammation

obesity

stress

neurocircuitry connectivity

anti-inflammatory agents

immunometabolism