Biological bases of suicidal behaviours: A narrative review. (16th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lengvenyte, Aiste; Conejero, Ismael; Courtet, Philippe; Olié, Emilie
• Other Names: Barrot Michel guestEditor.; Yalcin Ipek guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: European journal of neuroscience. Volume 53:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 351
• Publication Date: 2019-12-16
• Subjects: Nervous system -- Periodicals; 612.8
• DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14635
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0953-816X

Abstract

Abstract: Suicidal behaviour is a multifaceted phenomenon that concerns all human populations. It has been suggested that a complex interaction between the individual genetic profile and environmental factors throughout life underlies the pathophysiology of suicidal behaviour. Although epidemiological and genetic studies suggest the existence of a genetic component, exposure to biological and psychosocial adversities, especially during critical developmental periods, also contributes to altering the biological responses to threat and pleasure. This results in amplified maladaptive cognitive and behavioural traits and states associated with suicidal behaviours. Alterations in the cognitive inhibition and decision‐making capacity have been implicated in suicidal behaviours. Structural and functional changes in key brain regions and networks, such as prefrontal cortex, insula and default mode network, may underlie this relationship. Furthermore, the shift from health to suicidal behaviour incorporates complex and dynamic changes in the immune and stress responses, monoaminergic system, gonadal system and neuroplasticity. In this review, we describe the major findings of epidemiological, genetic, neuroanatomical, neuropsychological, immunological and neuroendocrinological studies on suicide behaviours to provide a solid background for future research in this field. This broad overview of the biological bases of suicide should promote neuroscience research on suicidal behaviours. This might lead to improved biological models and to the identification of evidence‐based biomarkers, treatment options and preventive strategies. Abstract : Genetic and environmental factors predispose individuals to suicidal behaviours through complex interactions that involve functional and structural alterations of the brain and of the neuroendocrine and immune systems. Upon exposure to biological or psychological stressors that exceed their adaptive capacities or during critical developmental periods, susceptible individuals develop or strengthen maladaptive cognitive and behavioural traits and states that can lead to suicide at the time of psychological crises.