Scientists are uncovering clues to what might be unfolding in the relationship between the brain and immune system in those who suffer from long-term repercussions of stress.

New research details those connections, specifically that an abundance of in the spleen could be sending messages to the brain that result in behavioral changes long after experience repeated .

“We found that in the spleen can contribute to chronic anxiety following psychological stress,” said Daniel McKim, a at The Ohio State University and the lead author of the study.

“Our findings emphasize the possibility that the immune system represents a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of mental health conditions.”

Read more: Study reveals role of spleen in prolonged anxiety after stress

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