Beyond the Screen: The Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Digital Stress

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@article{1710701,
      author = {G. Vidya Sagar Reddy},
      title = {Beyond the Screen: The Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Digital Stress},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {9},
      number = {3},
      pages = {883-888},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1710701.pdf},
      abstract = {The wide use of digital technology has introduced a new class of pervasive, chronic stressors to the mankind. While the psychological and social consequences are well-documented, the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms through which digital stress impacts human physiology were still not clearly understood. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the biological pathways that mediate the effects of digital technologies apart from behavioural perspective. It is evident that the constant connectivity and digital stimuli activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which further leads to continuous glucocorticoid exposure and downstream cellular changes. Neurobiological effects of these modifications include modifications to the dopamine-reward system and additional stimulation of neuroinflammation through the activation of microglia. Furthermore, these activities result in systemic impacts such inflammation, oxidative stress, and changes to the gut-brain axis. Developing focused, physiologically based therapies to mitigate these impacts requires in-depth understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms. To address the biological impact of a digitally-intensive lifestyle, further research is required to find new biomarkers and create therapeutic approaches.},
      keywords = {Digital Stress, Neurobiology, Cortisol, Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Microbiome, Cellular Mechanisms, Molecular Pathways.},
      month = {September},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I3-1710701-3191}
  }