Integrative Biological Pathways in Psycho-Oncology: Biomarkers, Psychedelic Therapies, and the Gut-Brain Axis

This review examines how biological markers such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1ra can help understand cancer progression, metastasis, and immune response. Evidence from gut-brain axis studies indicates that imbalances in gut flora caused by an overactive immune system or cancer treatment contribute to cognitive deficits and comorbid mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Microbial genera including Lactobacillus, Anaerobacterium, and Streptococcus are analyzed for their impact on metabolism, psychological well-being, and cancer symptoms such as pain and fatigue. Novel research on psychedelics in adjunct therapies suggests potential benefits for reducing treatment-resistant depression, pain, fatigue, and existential distress in cancer patients. The authors argue for multidisciplinary research to deepen understanding of biological-psychological interactions.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This chapter examines emerging trends in psycho-oncology by exploring the connection between the mind and the body, the role of the immune system and specific biological markers. Through a review of literature on the role of biomarkers, specifically IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1ra, this review paper aims to understand how these substances can be used to understand the progression of cancer, potential metastasis, and the response of the immune system. Evidence from studies exploring the gut-brain axis has been used to understand how imbalances in the gut flora caused by either an overactive immune system or cancer treatment can add to cognitive deficits and comorbid mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Microbial genera such as Lactobacillus, Anaerobacterium, and Streptococcus were analysed to see their impact on metabolism, psychological well-being and effects on commonly experienced cancer symptoms such as pain and fatigue. Novel research on the use of psychedelics in adjunct therapies has been analysed to understand the potential benefits of reducing symptoms in treatment-resistant depression, pain, fatigue and existential distress commonly seen in patients battling with cancer. This approach highlights the need for research spanning across multiple disciplines, which will allow for a deeper understanding of the interactions between biological and psychological domains.