Karlo Toljan
University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Croatia
Title: Introducing a novel integrative method named ‘Immunoneuropsychoanalysis’
Biography
Biography: Karlo Toljan
Abstract
The arising area of research that uncovers the importance of the microbiota-gut-brain axis implicates a need to apply this redefined concept of human biology and physiology in the area of mental health and well-being. The microbiota is numerically constituted of three times more living cells than a single human individual is. These microbes produce metabolites which have a direct impact on the function of the gut, but also repercussions on systemic immunology and the nervous system. The intestinal lining is an important barrier in physical and immunological terms and the enteric nervous system plays a major role in neurotransmitter synthesis, e.g. serotonin and dopamine. By elucidating the mechanisms of peripheral and central nervous system interconnections and with the recent finding of the brain’s own lymphatic system, dubbed the glymphatic, a major role for immunological cells such as microglia is determined. The polarization of microglia, which is different in regards to the immunological homeostasis or allostasis present, defines the millieu for neurons. Ultimately, through neurobiological mechanisms it generates stable or unstable mental and cognitive states producing symptoms, such as depression, anxiety etc. Traditional psychoanalysis represents a valuable framework for psychodynamic concepts and tools, both theoretical and practical. By reviewing it through modern neuroscientific techniques unavailable previously, the path was paved for an evidence based neuropsychoanalysis. By adding the new findings from the areas of microbiome research, immunology and the significance of gut-brain interactions, a step further would be called ‘Immunoneuropsychoanalysis’. Accordingly, keeping a bidirectional integrative interpretation as the main conceptual approach should be the ultimate goal.