Integrative Biological Pathways in Psycho-Oncology: Biomarkers, Psychedelic Therapies, and the Gut-Brain Axis
Karthikaa Menon, Khushi Gupta, Smriti Sethi
May 16, 2026 DOI: 10.55938/wlp.v3i5.466 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Psychoneuroimmunology Existentialism Disease Cognition Cancer Immune system Mechanism biology Psychotherapist Depression economics Biological pathway Mental health Psychological distress |
| Key findings | Proposes that biological markers and gut-brain axis imbalances are linked to cancer progression and comorbid mental health conditions, and that psychedelics may reduce symptoms in cancer patients. |
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.