Chronic mental stress and ischemic injury: Mechanisms and implications - A mini review

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Emerging evidence has highlighted a strong link between genetically predisposed risk factors, such as depression and chronic mental stress, and worsens stroke outcomes. This mini review explores the multifaceted role of mental stress in exacerbating ischemic injury. We discuss mechanisms at the cellular, subcellular, and epigenetic levels, including differential brain cell sensitivity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and novel epigenetic modifications like lactylation. This review provides a theoretical framework and scientific basis for understanding the clinical implications of mental stress in ischemic stroke management. The findings underscore the importance of further research to clarify these mechanisms and develop targeted interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of mental stress on stroke outcomes.