The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
Chronic stress has been increasingly recognized as a major contributor to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This paper explores the correlation between chronic stress and neurodegeneration by reviewing population, clinical, and animal studies. Studies show that long-term stress disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, impairs hippocampal function, increases oxidative stress, and promotes neuroinflammation. These processes are all implicated in cognitive decline. The mechanisms through which these processes occur are discussed including elevated glucocorticoid levels, shortened telomeres, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the activity of pro-inflammatory microglia. Lastly, potential interventions are reviewed, including lifestyle modifications such as exercise and ketogenic diets, as well as antioxidant intake. Understanding how chronic stress biologically alters the brain opens doors to more effective prevention and treatment strategies for cognitive decline.
Recommended Citation
Rachelle Halpert. (2025). Does Chronic Stress Play a Role in the Genesis of Neurodegenerative Diseases?. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 19(1), 5-12. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol19/iss1/2
