Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. While the primary effects of autoimmune diseases are observed in affected organs or tissues, growing evidence suggests that these diseases can also impact brain function, including the modulation of theta and gamma brain waves.
Inflammation and Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Autoimmune diseases trigger an inflammatory response in the body, including the brain. Inflammation can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. This imbalance can affect the generation and modulation of brain waves, including theta and gamma waves.
Changes in Neural Network Connections: Autoimmune diseases can lead to changes in the connections and communication between neurons. Inflammation and immune system dysfunction can damage the protective covering of nerve fibers called myelin. This demyelination can disrupt the normal flow of electrical signals between neurons and impact the synchronization of brain waves, including theta and gamma waves.
Effects of Neuroinflammation: Neuroinflammation, particularly inflammation affecting the brain, is frequently observed in autoimmune diseases. This neuroinflammation can directly impact the generation and modulation of brain waves. It can disrupt normal neuronal activity patterns and alter the balance between different brain waves, including theta and gamma waves.
Disruptions in Neurotransmitter Systems: Autoimmune diseases can affect the functioning of neurotransmitter systems in the brain. For example, in certain autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis, there may be a decrease in the production or availability of a neurotransmitter associated with the modulation of gamma waves, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These disruptions in neurotransmitter systems can influence the generation and synchronization of theta and gamma waves.
Autoantibodies and Neuronal Receptors: In some autoimmune diseases, autoantibodies targeting specific neuronal receptors can be produced in the brain. These autoantibodies can disrupt the normal functioning of these receptors, affecting neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission. Such disruptions can impact the generation and synchronization of theta and gamma waves.
It is important to note that the specific mechanisms through which autoimmune diseases affect theta and gamma waves can vary depending on the particular disease and its effects in the brain. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interactions between autoimmune diseases and brain wave activity.