Climate Change-Induced Stress and Neural Plasticity: Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms of Adaptation

Changes in the environment driven by climate change are becoming significant stressors that impact brain function, but the connections between these changes and neural plasticity remain unclear. This review aims to offer a comprehensive synthesis of the impact of climate-related stressors on neural plasticity via genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. A structured literature search (2000-2025) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, integrating evidence from in vitro, animal, and human studies. Findings indicate that stressors such as heat, pollution, psychosocial adversity, and hypoxia alter neural plasticity through interconnected pathways, such as oxidative stress responses, mitochondrial adaptation, neurotrophic signaling, and epigenetic regulation. The strength of evidence varies; mechanistic insights are primarily obtained from experimental models, whereas human data are mostly associative. We propose a framework for an adaptive-maladaptive continuum based on the intensity, duration, and timing of stressors in development. Overall, this review highlights key knowledge gaps and provides a structured roadmap to improve causal inference and translational relevance.