What Is the Molecular Signature of Mind-Body Interventions? A Systematic Review of Gene Expression Changes Induced by Meditation and Related Practices.
Front Immunol June 16, 2017 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00670 (opens in new tab) via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA systematic review of 18 studies examined how meditation and related mind-body practices affect gene expression. The evidence suggests that these practices may downregulate genes involved in inflammation and stress-related pathways, particularly the NF-κB transcription factor, while upregulating genes associated with immune function and cellular health. The findings are preliminary due to small sample sizes and methodological heterogeneity across studies. The review calls for larger, more rigorous trials to confirm these molecular signatures and understand their clinical implications.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Systematic review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Meditation and mind-body interventions may downregulate pro-inflammatory genes and upregulate immune-related genes, though evidence is preliminary. |
Abstract
What Is the Molecular Signature of Mind-Body Interventions? A Systematic Review of Gene Expression Changes Induced by Meditation and Related Practices.