Review

Neurobiology of Cancer: A Review from Psychooncologic and Neuroscientific Perspective

Volume: 18 Number: 1 March 31, 2026
TR EN

Neurobiology of Cancer: A Review from Psychooncologic and Neuroscientific Perspective

Abstract

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.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Clinical Neuropsychology , Health Psychology

Journal Section

Review

Early Pub Date

November 27, 2025

Publication Date

March 31, 2026

Submission Date

March 24, 2025

Acceptance Date

May 20, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 18 Number: 1

JAMA
1.Savaş E. Neurobiology of Cancer: A Review from Psychooncologic and Neuroscientific Perspective. Psikiyatride Güncel Yaklaşımlar - Current Approaches in Psychiatry. 2026;18:256–267.
 
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