A theoretical construct advocating exploration of the converging immunomodulating pathways in suicide and Behçet disease

Abstract

Suicide is a global public health challenge, with approximately a million people losing their lives to suicide annually. The study of suicide and understanding and the neurobiology of suicide has remained challenging However, focusing on specific illnesses and pathways may aid in providing a better understanding of the neurophysiology of suicide. For example, Postolache et al. have extensively reported on Toxoplasma gandii and suicidal behaviors. In this paper, we reflect on the role of immunomodulating molecules that play a significant role in neurophysiology that may converge in Behçet disease and suicide. By focusing on a specific illness, it is possible to understand the specific suicide risk factor for that illness as well as garner insight into understanding the pathophysiology of suicide. Behçet disease, an inflammatory disease of the Old Silk Road typically affecting individuals aged 20-50, is associated with significant risk for suicide. Therefore, reflecting on the common pathways involved in both suicidal behaviors and Behçet disease may not only help develop strategies to lower the risk of suicide in Behçet disease but also afford a somewhat less heterogenous population to study suicide in reducing the multitude of confounding factors associated with suicidal behaviors.