The immune system and central nervous system (CNS) are deeply interconnected. Rather than functioning independently, these systems engage in constant biochemical communication. In a healthy state, this interaction supports development, stress adaptation, and neuroprotection. When dysregulated, it may contribute to psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes.
📌 Read about neuroinflammation
Immune-brain signaling plays a critical role in the development and regulation of conditions such as depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, chronic fatigue, and post-viral syndromes. Identification of underlying immune dysregulation offers new possibilities for targeted support.
Neuroimmune Pathways
Key mechanisms of immune–brain communication include:
- Cytokines → immune messengers that influence mood, sleep, and cognition
- Microglia → brain-resident immune cells involved in inflammation and neural maintenance
- Blood–brain barrier (BBB) → controls immune cell and molecule access to brain tissue
- Bidirectional signaling → via the vagus nerve, lymphatic drainage, and glial pathways
Disruption in any of these systems may result in increased neurological vulnerability and persistent inflammatory signaling.
Cytokine Effects on Mental Health
Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 are known to affect:
- Motivation and reward sensitivity
- Sleep quality and circadian stability
- Memory formation and concentration
- Emotional reactivity and stress tolerance
Elevated cytokine levels have been observed in individuals with depression, fatigue syndromes, and neurodevelopmental disorders, even in the absence of overt infection.
Microglial Activation and Brain Development
Microglia regulate synaptic refinement, immune surveillance, and neuroplasticity. Chronic microglial activation has been linked to:
- Social and language delays
- Hyperactivity and attention issues
- Emotional dysregulation
- Cognitive fatigue
Reducing microglial reactivity through antioxidant support, gut-targeted strategies, and immune modulation may benefit both children and adults with neuropsychiatric concerns.
Gut–Immune–Brain Axis
Approximately 70% of immune cells reside in the gastrointestinal tract. The gut–immune–brain axis is shaped by intestinal integrity, microbiota diversity, and immune tolerance. Disturbances may lead to:
- Increased gut permeability
- Systemic immune activation
- Altered neurotransmitter production
- Behavioral and mood symptoms
📌 Read about food-derived opioid peptides
Food-derived opioid peptides—such as casomorphins and gluten exorphins—may contribute to neurobehavioral symptoms by influencing opioid receptors and inflammatory signaling. These peptides are particularly relevant in sensitive individuals with ASD, ADHD, or gastrointestinal dysfunction.
Post-Infectious and Autoimmune Mechanisms
Certain infections and immune triggers may result in immune-mediated neuropsychiatric symptoms. Examples include:
- Post-viral neuroinflammation
- Autoimmune responses targeting neural antigens
- PANS/PANDAS syndromes in children
- Persistent fatigue and cognitive symptoms after infections such as COVID-19
Assessment may include testing for autoantibodies, chronic infections, and inflammatory mediators.
Clinical Evaluation and Modulation
Evaluation at Orion Biomedica may include:
- Neuroinflammatory markers and cytokine profiling
- Intestinal permeability and gut-immune interface testing
- Blood–brain barrier integrity assessment (e.g., S100B protein)
- Food-derived peptide analysis
- Screening for post-infectious and autoimmune reactivity
Interventions target immune balance, support barrier integrity, and modulate oxidative stress and excitotoxicity.
📞 For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Orion Biomedica.