The Central Nervous Mechanism of Stress-Promoting Cancer Progression

Abstract

Evidence shows that stress can promote the occurrence and development of tumors. In recent years, many studies have shown that stress-related hormones or peripheral neurotransmitters can promote the proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis of tumor cells and impair the body’s immune response, causing tumor cells to escape the “surveillance” of the immune system. However, the perception of stress occurs in the central nervous system (CNS) and the role of the central nervous system in tumor progression is still unclear, as are the underlying mechanisms. This review summarizes what is known of stress-related CNS-network activation during the stress response and the influence of the CNS on tumors and discusses available adjuvant treatment methods for cancer patients with negative emotional states, such as anxiety and depression.

Tracking Cancer: Exploring Heart Rate Variability Patterns by Cancer Location and Progression

“…These patterns have been consistently documented in the scientific literature with studies positing that increased sympathetic drive underlies this abnormal activity of the ANS [ 13 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Previous studies have suggested that the heightened sympathetic drive promotes tumorigenesis, which was supported by observations of augmented innervation of sympathetic nerve fibers in tumors in addition to higher levels of circulating adrenergic catecholamines [ 32 , 33 ]. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress are also proposed drivers of cancer-related abnormal ANS activity [ 32 ].…”

“…Previous studies have suggested that the heightened sympathetic drive promotes tumorigenesis, which was supported by observations of augmented innervation of sympathetic nerve fibers in tumors in addition to higher levels of circulating adrenergic catecholamines [ 32 , 33 ]. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress are also proposed drivers of cancer-related abnormal ANS activity [ 32 ]. While other studies observed reduced HRV among cancer patients, the current study possesses several novelties that strengthen and expand upon the existing scientific evidence.…”

O Impacto Da Modernidade: A Mudança Dos Hábitos E Estilos De Vida E Suas Consequências Na Saúde Individual E Coletiva

“…Em outro estudo, foi evidenciado que a ansiedade exerce um efeito negativo no prognóstico e no tratamento de pacientes com câncer, sendo relatada a maior probabilidade de ter comorbidades de ansiedade do que pessoas saudáveis. (HONG et al, 2022) Como já foi citado antes, o estresse se tornou parte da vida moderna, o que o tornou uma preocupação significativa, pois pode ser um fator de risco para diversas doenças, como o câncer. O estresse crônico pode ser causado por um ritmo de vida acelerado, uma alta carga de trabalho e pressão profissional, problemas econômicos, isolamento social, pressões culturais e outras preocupações da vida moderna.…”

Investigating the crosstalk between chronic stress and immune cells: implications for enhanced cancer therapy

“…Chronic stress has been shown to affect the effectiveness of anticancer treatments by exerting an influence on the TME ( Hong et al, 2022 ). The SNS plays a role in the formation of pre-metastatic niches ( Ieguchi et al, 2022 ).…”