A body-brain (dis)equilibrium regulating transitions from health to pathology

Abstract

Recent empirical evidence and theoretical propositions motivate a paradigm shift in how we investigate neurocognitive functions. Rather than looking at the brain-behaviour relationship in isolation, research shows that cognition is shaped by reciprocal, dynamical interactions between the brain and the body across multiple timescales: from ultra-slow circadian rhythm to gastrointestinal and cardiorespiratory activity. This interest in body-brain-behaviour dynamics has raised new questions about if and how autonomic functioning, the coordination of intero- and exteroception, lifestyle and dietary choices, gut microbiome composition, hormonal cycles, and inflammation can impact behaviour, general health and well-being. We carefully reviewed existing theoretical accounts and empirical evidence on the body-brain-behaviour interface and delineated new emerging avenues for multimodal, functional, ecologically valid, and personalized research that also integrates smart sensing technologies. In a synopsis, we propose the concept of a body-brain (dis)equilibrium regulating transitions from health to pathology.

Keywords: Body physiology; Body-brain interface; Cognition; Human behaviour; Neural oscillations.