Biochemical Foundations of Emotion Regulation: Implications for Pharmacological and Psychological Interventions-A Narrative Review

OBM Neurobiology. 2025. Vol. 9. No. 4. Article 310.

Gerges M., Kosonogov V.

Background: Emotional regulation (ER) involves processes that modulate the intensity, duration, and expression of emotions. Dysregulation in ER is closely linked to mental health disorders, highlighting the need to understand its biochemical foundations. While traditionally studied from psychological perspectives, ER is increasingly recognized as deeply intertwined with biochemical pathways. Objective: This review aims to explore the biochemical underpinnings of ER, focusing on the bidirectional relationship between biochemical mediators and emotion regulation processes, and examining how these interactions influence mental health and therapeutic interventions. Methods: A comprehensive review of relevant studies was conducted to synthesize evidence on the roles of neurotransmitters (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, GABA) and hormones (e.g., cortisol, oxytocin) in ER. The review also evaluates the effects of ER strategies (e.g., cognitive reappraisal, expressive suppression) on physiological markers such as cortisol and inflammatory cytokines, as well as the impact of pharmacological treatments (e.g., antidepressants, mood stabilisers) and substances (e.g., alcohol, illicit drugs) on ER. Results: Key neurotransmitters and hormones play pivotal roles in shaping emotional responses. Dysregulated emotional states alter biochemical markers, creating a feedback loop between emotional and physiological systems. Adaptive ER strategies, such as cognitive reappraisal and mindfulness, are associated with improved biochemical profiles, while maladaptive strategies like expressive suppression are linked to adverse physiological outcomes. Pharmacological interventions enhance ER by restoring balance in brain circuits, whereas substances impair ER by disrupting neurotransmitter systems. Conclusion: The interplay between biochemical processes and ER provides critical insights into the mechanisms underlying mental disorders and informs the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. Further research is needed to refine these insights and translate findings into effective clinical applications.

Keywords: emotion regulation

Publication based on the results of: Mental health research: behavioral and neurophysiological foundations (2025)