Review article: The psychoneuroimmunology of irritable bowel syndrome - An exploration of interactions between psychological, neurological and immunological observations

Abstract

Background: The pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is founded on interactive mechanisms. Disentangling these processes is a prerequisite for the development of effective drug therapy. Aim: To identify the interaction between the various factors implicated in IBS. Methods: Articles pertaining to IBS pathogenesis focusing on psychoneuroimmunology were identified using following search terms: IBS, animal models, microbiota, probiotics, immunology, visceral hypersensitivity, imaging, psychology and visceral pain. Results: Cerebral imaging using MRI and proton emission tomography scanning has revealed differential regional cerebral activation, whereas stimuli induced activation has be..