From stress to cognitive impairment: an integrative model of oxidative and hemorheological mechanisms.

Psychological stress is associated with oxidative stress, which can have profound implications for cognitive functions. The Free Radical Theory of Aging highlights the potential role of accumulated oxidative damage in cellular aging and the development of age-related diseases. This imbalance is linked to alterations in erythrocyte rheology, potentially contributing to reduced blood flow and impaired cardiovascular function. Due to its high metabolic activity and sensitivity to oxidative conditions, the brain is particularly vulnerable to these effects. An integrative pathway is proposed that describes a cascade of interactions from psychological stress to reduced cognitive function. In this model, psychological stress is hypothesized to contribute to hemorheological changes that decrease the availability of oxygen and nutrients to neural tissues, subsequently impacting cognitive performance. Finally, this manuscript is a narrative review that presents a conceptual framework summarized in an integrative figure, highlighting the interplay between oxidative, vascular, and hemorheological mechanisms.