Abstract
Psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology (PNEI) is an integrative discipline
studying the processes by which mental events modulate immune functions
and how the immune system in turn can alter brain function. The central
nervous system (CNS) is the only system in the body lacking its own
anatomically defined lymphatic vessels. The glymphatic system is an
adaptation mechanism developed by the CNS for fluid balance and waste
clearance. Prolonged exposure to stress – chronic stress, can be
detrimental for the functioning of the central nervous system and the
glymphatic system. Methods: Electronic databases including
PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched for original
articles examining stress and its effects on the glymphatic
system.Results: Numerous everyday situations can be defined as
“stressful” – work environment, exams, physical and psychological
stress due to illness, trauma, etc. The body’s response to stress is a
combination of adjustments known as “fight-flight-freeze” response –
hormonal and physiologic changes helping the body fight a threat or flee
to safety. Increase in stress is associated with impaired sleep and
considering that the brain’s waste clearing system is shown to be active
during sleep, it can be suggested that this is a mechanism in which
stress affects glymphatic function.Conclusion: The research on the
impact of stress on the glymphatic function is still lacking, but there
are clear indications that researching the topic is valuable. It is
promising to evaluate if through stress management there can be an
improvement in waste-clearing in the brain and the prognosis of diseases
characterized by accumulation of metabolites.