BMC Pulmonary Medicine is pleased to announce the launch of its latest Collection, focusing on the fascinating topic of brain-lung crosstalk. This Collection aims to explore the intricate relationship between the brain and the lungs, shedding light on the communication and interactions that occur between these two vital organs.
The brain and the lungs are intricately connected through various physiological pathways, including neural, hormonal, and immunological mechanisms. Understanding the crosstalk between these systems is crucial in unraveling the complex interplay between brain functions and lung health.
Research in this field has highlighted the bidirectional nature of brain-lung communication. The brain, through the autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, exerts significant control over respiratory function. At the same time, the lungs send signals to the brain through neurotransmitters and immune cells, influencing neurological processes.
One of the key areas of investigation in brain-lung crosstalk is the impact of psychological factors on lung health. Stress, anxiety, and depression have been shown to affect respiratory function and increase the susceptibility to lung diseases. Conversely, lung conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can have profound effects on mental well-being.
This new Collection seeks to explore the underlying mechanisms of brain-lung crosstalk and its implications for respiratory and neurological health. The articles included will cover a wide range of topics, including the role of inflammation, neuroendocrine regulation, and the impact of lifestyle factors on brain-lung interactions.
It is hoped that this Collection will contribute to a better understanding of the brain-lung connection and ultimately lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for respiratory and neurological disorders. Researchers in the fields of pulmonology, neurology, and psychiatry are encouraged to submit their work to this exciting new Collection.
Definitions:
– Brain-lung crosstalk: the communication and interactions between the brain and the lungs.
– Autonomic nervous system: the part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions.
– Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: a complex signaling pathway involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, responsible for the body’s response to stress.
– Neurotransmitters: chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells.
– Inflammation: a protective response of the body to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Sources:
BMC Pulmonary Medicine
