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Current Neuropharmacology

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1570-159X
ISSN (Online): 1875-6190

Review Article

Neuroinflammation and the Immune-Kynurenine Pathway in Anxiety Disorders

Author(s): Yong-Ku Kim and Sang Won Jeon*

Volume 16, Issue 5, 2018

Page: [574 - 582] Pages: 9

DOI: 10.2174/1570159X15666170913110426

Price: $65

Abstract

Background: Recently, neuroinflammation and the immune-kynurenine pathway have received increased attention in the psychoimmunology field of major depressive disorder (MDD), while studies related to anxiety disorders have been very limited.

Objective: This study reviewed possible mechanisms by which stress or inflammation modulate anxiety through tryptophan metabolism and the kynurenine pathway.

Methods: Relevant literature was identified through a search of MEDLINE via PubMed.

Results: Accumulating evidence has indicated the modulatory effects of the immune-kynurenine pathway on anxiety. The tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs) in the kynurenine pathway imbalanced by stress or inflammation induce serotonin and melatonin deficiency, making anxiety reactions more sensitive. In addition, TRYCATs cause or sustain anxiety by acting as endogenous anxiogens or anxiolytics, an NMDA agonist or antagonist, or a free radical generator.

Conclusion: We hope that our understanding of the psychoimmunological mechanisms of anxiety will be expanded and anxiety-related studies will receive greater attention.

Keywords: Anxiety, kynurenine, tryptophan catabolites, serotonin, psychoimmunology, neuroinflammation.

Graphical Abstract

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