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Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with interactions between genetic and environmental factors that contribute to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.
- Chronic stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins may exacerbate inflammatory responses, leading to neuronal dysfunction.
- Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis due to stress could promote a pro-inflammatory state, impairing neuroplasticity and cognition.
- Unhealthy diets may disrupt gut microbiota and increase systemic inflammation, while anti-inflammatory diets could offer neuroprotection.
- Exposure to air pollutants and heavy metals is linked to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, worsening neuroinflammation.
- Genetic predisposition, influenced by certain polymorphisms, may affect inflammatory responses and MDD susceptibility.
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