Abstract
Stress significantly impacts the immune system, affecting susceptibility to illness and overall health. This review examines the intricate relationship between stress and the immune system, offering insights having practical implications for health and disease prevention. Stress can significantly trigger molecular and immune modulation, affecting the distribution and trafficking of immune cells in various organs and altering their composition in the blood. The review delves into two key pathways connecting stress and immunity: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Stress activates the neuroendocrine system and triggers microglia in the brain, releasing stress hormones and neurotransmitters that modulate the function and movement of immune cells. Acute stress can temporarily strengthen immunity and promote protection during infection; in contrast, chronic stress dysregulates or inhibits immune functions. Chronic stress causes an increase in cortisol levels through the HPA axis, ultimately suppressing the immune response. Recognizing stress triggers and implementing effective stress management techniques can significantly impact individuals' well-being. This review indicates that immune cells express genes differentially in response to stress, suggesting individual variabilities in the immune response against stress. This underscores the need for a personalized approach to stress management. This review also highlights the potential link between chronic stress and autoimmune disorders and warrants further investigation.