The Effect of Music on the Production of Neurotransmitters, Hormones, Cytokines, and Peptides: A Review

Abstract

Research on the effects of music exposure on the release of biochemical messengers is an expanding field. The importance of understanding the influence of music on messenger production is a means of explaining behavioral reactions through physiological mechanisms. Signaling molecules that prove integral for important regulatory functions include neurotransmitters, hormones, cytokines, and peptides. Thus music elicits responses promoting positive emotions, alleviation of stress, and immune function. Study of the production of the messengers reveals the connection between the mind and the body. The purpose of the review is to provide a closer look into the effectual relationship between music and production of these messengers by providing literature and analysis.

The Effect of Low‐Frequency Sound Stimulation on Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Clinical Study

“…Given the role that neuro-transmitters, hormones and the limbic system play in pain according to the NM theory, it is highly relevant that music has been shown to affect the release of endorphins ( 29 – 37 ), dopamine ( 38 , 39 ) and serotonin ( 40 , 41 ), and decrease cortisol levels ( 39 , 42 – 47 ). A recent review ( 45 ) of 400 published scientific articles investigating music as medicine found strong evidence that music has effects on brain chemistry, has mental and physical health benefits on management of mood and stress reduction, and that it is the rhythmic stimulation of music, rather than the melody, that has the greatest antipain effect in the brain.…”

A pilot study exploring the effects of musical genres on the depth of general anaesthesia assessed by haemodynamic responses

“…Considering the complexity of auditory processing, it appears plausible that music promotes a variable activation of distinct brain areas, producing different physiological responses. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Anaesthetic agents exert both direct and indirect effects on cardiovascular function, resulting in a dose-dependent systemic depression that affects autonomic nervous system parameters, such as heart rate (HR) and arterial blood pressure (ABP). These changes may act as indicators of the depth of anaesthesia in the patient.…”

Effects of a dancing intervention on mood states in a woman with fibromyalgia: A case report

“…The results showed that the use of motivational auditory stimulus during aerobic exercise was an effective strategy for mood change evaluated by the Brunel Mood Scale, since it increased the positive factor (vigor) and reduced the negative factors (tension, depression, anger, fatigue and mental confusion), thus corroborating our findings. In a review study, Gangrade 16 confirmed the widespread use of music to improve the general well-being of patients.…”