Neurobiology of Cancer: A Review from Psychooncologic and Neuroscientific Perspective

This review emphasizes the need to understand not only the biological but also the psychological and neurobiological aspects of cancer. Factors such as psychosocial stress, depression and social isolation have important effects on cancer initiation and progression through the neuroendocrine system and the immune system. In this context, the effects of interactions between the nervous system and the immune system on the tumor microenvironment, neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter levels are detailed. In addition, the neurobiological effects of cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy) on cognitive and emotional functions were discussed; “chemobrain”, neuropathic pain and treatment-related neurocognitive impairments were explained. Recent research has shown that these effects can be mitigated by psychooncological approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and mindfulness. These interventions support neuroplasticity by regulating stress responses and their effects on brain regions are supported by neuroimaging studies. Finally, the critical role of neuropsychological assessments and cognitive rehabilitation programs in individualized intervention processes was emphasized and the importance of an interdisciplinary approach was revealed. This study aims to critically evaluate the existing literature and draw attention to the gaps in the research field by comprehensively examining the neurobiological and psychooncological effects of cancer.