Neuroplasticity and Neuromodulation in Stress-Related and Affective Disorders: Mechanisms and Translational Applications

Chronic stress and affective dysregulation profoundly impact brain function and mental health. Alterations in neuroplasticity, cortical excitability, and network connectivity are increasingly recognized as key mechanisms underlying stress-related psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance-use conditions. Understanding how these neurobiological changes occur—and how they can be modified through neuromodulation and other interventions—is essential for advancing next-generation treatments.This Research Topic aims to explore the mechanisms of brain plasticity in stress and affective disorders and to highlight neuromodulation-based strategies that target these mechanisms to improve cognitive and emotional outcomes. By bridging clinical psychiatry, neuroscience, and neurotechnology, the collection seeks to deepen our understanding of how stress alters brain systems and how plasticity can be harnessed for therapeutic benefit.We invite contributions that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:• Mechanisms of neuroplasticity in stress-related and affective disorders, including alterations in cortical excitability, synaptic regulation, and brain network dynamics.• Neuromodulation techniques (rTMS, tDCS, TBS, EEG-guided stimulation) for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction.• Multimodal biomarkers (neuroimaging, MRS, EEG, neuroendocrine) linking neural plasticity to clinical outcomes or treatment response.• Combined or precision interventions integrating brain stimulation with pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy.• Clinical and translational studies evaluating the effects of neuromodulation on cognition, emotion, and brain–body interaction in stress-related conditions.Authors are encouraged to submit original research, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or methodological papers that advance understanding of how neuromodulation and neuroplasticity can be leveraged to restore mental health and resilience. Topic editors: Xueyi Wang, Ran Wang, Shahid Bashir Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/76059/neuroplasticity-and-neuromodulation-in-stress-related-and-affective-disorders-mechanisms-and-translational-applications