Cytokine Networks in Alcohol Use Disorder: A Narrative Review Highlighting Research Gaps and Future Priorities

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a major public health issue linked to cognitive deficits and immune dysfunction.
• Neuroimmune signaling, involving microglial activation and cytokines, is implicated in AUD development and relapse.
• Cytokines and interleukins (ILs) play a critical role in AUD pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current evidence on the role of cytokines and interleukins in AUD.
• To examine how alcohol exposure, withdrawal, and abstinence modulate these immune markers.
• To identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AUD.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive narrative review of studies on cytokine and interleukin profiles in adults with AUD.
• Searches conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
• Synthesis of findings to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and research gaps.

Main Results:

• AUD is associated with altered cytokine profiles, including elevated pro-inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, IL-18) during use and early abstinence.
• Anti-inflammatory marker IL-10 shows fluctuating levels; immune changes correlate with systemic inflammation, neurotoxicity, and AUD severity.
• Cytokine levels may normalize with sustained abstinence, but severe AUD can lead to persistent immune dysregulation; associations with anxiety and depression noted.

Conclusions:

• Immune dysregulation and altered cytokine profiles are central to AUD pathophysiology.
• Cytokines may serve as potential biomarkers for AUD progression and treatment response.
• Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, diverse populations, and mechanistic investigations for targeted immunomodulatory therapies.