Brain disorders including dementia and depression have become among the most pressing concerns of the modern day. Yet preventive strategies for brain conditions are often ignored until far too late. One of the most promising conceptualizations of risk factors for brain disease is disordered brain immunity, especially as represented in neuroinflammation, which may impact neurotransmission, neuroplasticity and brain cell health. Breakthroughs in understanding mechanisms of neuroinflammation and environmental variables that influence brain immunity are therefore key to preventing and management of brain disease. This presentation will explore current understandings of neurobiological pathways driving brain inflammation and recent updates on the science of major lifestyle variables putatively contributing to the process. Special emphasis will be placed on the neuroinflammatory effects of anthropogenic environmental factors including air pollution.

Learning Objectives:

1. Develop an awareness of the current landscape of neuroinflammation-related diseases.
2. Review major systemic contributing pathways to neuroinflammation.
3. Recognize the current neurobiological mechanisms behind brain inflammation.
4. Investigate the role of “hidden” environmental factors bearing on neuroinflammation.
5. Recognize the role of climate change as a driver of brain disease via neuroinflammation.
6. Review evidence for environmental interventions to reduce neuroinflammation.