مقالات پذیرفته شده در نهمین کنگره بین المللی زیست پزشکی
The Interplay Between the Immune System and Cognitive Function: Mechanisms and Implications
The Interplay Between the Immune System and Cognitive Function: Mechanisms and Implications
Mahsa Mohammadi Tirabadi,1Saba Safdarpour,2,*
1. Faculty of Modern Sciences, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Introduction: The brain and spinal cord (the CNS), like other organs, have their own immune system. The meninges act as one of the main defense barriers in the CNS, with the highest presence of macrophages in the dura layer. The CNS is considered immune-privileged because it develops tolerance: antigens can enter without causing a strong inflammatory response. In addition, microglia—the main phagocytes of the CNS—along with dendritic cells, mast cells, B cells, and T cells, reside in the meninges and contribute to both inflammation and homeostasis. Although previous studies have focused on resident cells, bone marrow-derived cells are increasingly recognized for their role in neurological disorders, brain repair, and synaptic plasticity.
Methods: Original and review articles published from 2021 to date were reviewed using research databases including PubMed and Google Scholar.
Results: Neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes also exhibit immunological functions. There is a close and dynamic connection between the CNS and the immune system, suggesting that both systems can influence cognitive function. Although the pathogenesis of cognitive dysfunction is not fully understood, studying these interactions may provide insights into potential treatments.
Cognitive dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a common feature across a wide range of psychiatric disorders, affecting memory, learning, executive function, and comprehension. Specific immune molecules and their signaling pathways are involved in these disorders.
Mental disorders can stimulate CNS immune cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, activating signaling pathways through innate immune receptors. Cytokines—signaling molecules of the immune system—can be recognized by neurons and influence cognitive function and memory. Conversely, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides may modulate immune cell activity.
Experimental studies have shown that the absence of mature T cells leads to cognitive impairment, which can be reversed by T cell transfer, highlighting the importance of CD4+ T cells in coping with neuropsychiatric disorders. Strong evidence also indicates a connection between the nervous system and immune system in depressive disorders.
Conclusion: Neuropsychiatric disorders involve complex molecular and cellular processes, with cognitive dysfunction at their core. Understanding these processes highlights the bidirectional interaction between the nervous and immune systems. Both molecular and environmental factors influence cognitive outcomes. By monitoring CNS inflammation, the immune system can help maintain a controlled inflammatory phenotype, which may improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.