From InFocus Newsletter, March 2008

Researchers from Texas A & M University have presented evidence that chronic stress can intensify inflammation and increase a person's risk for developing central nervous system infections, neurodegenerative diseases, like multiple sclerosis (MS), and other inflammatory diseases. The researchers proposed that stress-induced increases of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that regulate immune and inflammatory functions, inhibit the clearing of a virus and allow the inflammatory process to run out of control. Lead researcher Dr. Mary Meagher says, ". . . people exposed to chronic social conflict experience high levels of stress and consequent dysregulation of the immune system, thereby increasing vulnerability to infectious and autoimmune diseases."

Dr. Meager also comments that it is possible that the adverse effects of social conflict on people who are vulnerable to certain inflammatory diseases may be prevented or reversed by treatments aimed at blocking increases in the cytokine. Some potential interventions include certain anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, antidepressant medication, omega-3 fatty acids, and mindfulness relaxation training.

--Source: Excerpted from "New Research Shows How Chronic Stress Worsens Neurodegenerative Disease Course," American Psychological Association (APA), via Newswire, August 17, 2007