Main neurospecific factors, cytokines and cortisol under stress, their influence on cognitive functions

Abstract

 The rhythm and conditions of human life currently predispose to the effects of stress factors, which change the level of cortisol, neurospecific proteins (myelin basic protein, calcium-binding protein B), neurotrophic factors (neurotrophic factor brain, nerve growth factor, neuron-specific enolase), cytokines (interleukin-1 beta, interferon-gamma, interleukin-10) increase or decrease, which can adversely affect the cognitive functions of the brain – memory, attention. This review of the literature considers and summarizes the results of modern research, data from scientific articles in which the above indicators were studied: their functions are described in the norm, changes in concentration under stress-induced conditions, and their relationship with cognitive activity. Stress has been found to cause increased production of cortisol and interleukin-1 beta. A decrease in interleukin-10 concentration is associated with more severe stress, and its high levels may be associated with low stress levels. Under normal conditions, plasma levels of neuron-specific enolase are extremely low, but when neurons are damaged, its concentration in the blood rises. There is a direct relationship in the modification of learning and memory with calcium-binding protein B. The role of nerve growth factor in the implementation of normal cognitive functions is great, and in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases its concentration is significantly reduced.