Mind-body therapies and control of inflammatory biology: A descriptive review.

Abstract

The use of mind-body therapies, including Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, and meditation, has grown steadily in recent years. These approaches have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life, and research has begun to examine the impact of these therapies on biological processes, including inflammation. A review of 26 randomized controlled trials was conducted to describe the effects of mind-body therapies (MBTs) on circulating, cellular, and genomic markers of inflammation. This qualitative evaluation showed mixed effects of MBTs on circulating inflammatory markers, including CRP and IL-6, and on measures of stimulated cytokine production. More consistent findings were seen for genomic markers, with trials showing decreased expression of inflammation-related genes and reduced signaling through the proinflammatory transcription factor NF-κB. Potential mechanisms for these effects are discussed, including alterations in neuroendocrine, neural, and psychological and behavioral processes.

• Authors: Julienne E Bower, Michael R Irwin
• Journal: Brain, behavior, and immunity (Brain Behav Immun) Vol. 51 Pg. 1-11 (Jan 2016) ISSN: 1090-2139 [Electronic] Netherlands
• PMID: 26116436 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Cytokines
• Inflammation Mediators
• C-Reactive Protein

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• C-Reactive Protein (metabolism)
• Cytokines (metabolism)
• Female
• Gene Expression
• Humans
• Inflammation (genetics, metabolism, therapy)
• Inflammation Mediators (metabolism)
• Male
• Meditation
• Middle Aged
• Mind-Body Therapies
• Quality of Life
• Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
• Tai Ji
• Treatment Outcome
• Yoga
• Young Adult