Modern neuroscience has revealed how mirror neurons affects the brain's structure, chemistry, and function — knowledge that's transforming treatment approaches.
The Brain Regions Involved in Mirror Neurons
Key brain areas implicated in mirror neurons include:
- Amygdala: The brain's threat-detection center becomes hyperactive in mirror neurons, triggering excessive fear and stress responses
- Prefrontal Cortex: Responsible for rational thinking and emotional regulation — its function is often impaired by mirror neurons
- Hippocampus: Memory and context processing; chronic mirror neurons can affect its volume and function
- HPA Axis: The stress hormone system that, when dysregulated, drives many physical symptoms of mirror neurons
Neurochemistry of Mirror Neurons
Mirror Neurons involves imbalances or dysregulation of key neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA — all targets of current treatments.
How Treatment Changes the Brain
Both therapy and medication produce measurable changes in brain function in mirror neurons. CBT, for example, has been shown to normalize amygdala reactivity.
Neuroplasticity and Mirror Neurons
The brain retains its ability to change throughout life. This neuroplasticity means that with appropriate treatment and practice, the neural patterns underlying mirror neurons can genuinely change.