Understanding the processes that occur in the brain of individuals with mental disorders is an ongoing challenge in neuroscience and psychiatry. Recent studies have elucidated several neurobiological alterations that occur in these disorders, revealing the complexity and diversity of clinical and neuroanatomical manifestations associated with different psychiatric conditions.
Neurobiological Mechanisms of Psychiatric Disorders
Mental disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are characterized by specific changes in various brain regions. These changes involve both structural and functional aspects of the brain.
Frontal Lobe
The frontal lobe is crucial for executive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and planning. Dysfunctions in the frontal lobe are associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Research shows that the dorsolateral area of ​​the prefrontal cortex is linked to executive functions, while the ventromedial area is linked to emotions. In disorders such as depression and schizophrenia, there is an interaction between these cognitive and emotional domains, suggesting an interconnection between them​(what-happens-in-the-bra…)​.
Temporal Lobe
The temporal lobe is responsible for auditory processing, memory, and emotional regulation. Damage to this region can lead to impairments in memory, language comprehension, and recognition of objects and faces. Atrophy of the medial temporal lobe is prevalent in Alzheimer’s disease, and dysfunction in this area has been reported in schizophrenia, even in healthy family members of affected individuals.
Limbic System
The limbic system, which includes the amygdala and hippocampus, is critical for processing and regulating emotions and memory. Alterations in the limbic system are frequently observed in neuroimaging studies of patients with psychiatric disorders. The amygdala is involved in fear processing and the fight-or-flight response, and its dysfunctions are associated with disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and autism​(what-happens-in-the-bra…)​.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis
The HPA axis plays a crucial role in the stress response by regulating the release of hormones such as cortisol. Alterations in this axis are common in patients with chronic depression and major depressive episodes. HPA axis dysfunction can lead to hypersecretion of hormones and is associated with behavioral and neurobiological symptoms seen in depression​(what-happens-in-the-bra…)​.
Final Considerations
Advances in neurobiological research have provided a deeper understanding of the basis of psychiatric disorders. However, the complexity of these conditions requires a multifaceted approach that includes studies of genetics, molecular biology, and functional neuroimaging. Recognizing the biological complexity of these disorders is critical to developing more effective diagnostics and treatments.
Reference:
RODRIGUES, F. de A. What Happens in the Brain of a Person with Disorder. International Journal of Health Science, vol. 2, no. 44, p. 1-10, 2022. DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.1592442202087.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.