Figure 1.

Inflammation and neuroendocrine pathways at the interface of central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system in health and disease. The reciprocal interactions between the brain and physical health outcomes are governed through the neuroendocrine pathways (sympathoadrenal and HPAc axes, CAP) and inflammatory processes which also interact. In this article, we presented data that highlight such associations in CVD, HIV infection, and obesity in association with depression or subclinical depressive symptoms and neurocognition. Non-pharmacological interventions such as exercise or PA which affects both neuroendocrine and inflammatory processes present a promising therapeutic opportunity for co-morbid physical and mental conditions.

CNS, central nervous system; HPAc, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-cortical; CAP, cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway; CVD, cardiovascular disease; HIV, human immunodeficiency virus; PA, physical activity