CoChat
Sign Up
Cited by 44Mindfulness and Compassion InterventionsReligion, Spirituality, and PsychologyTranscranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies

Biological mechanism study of meditation and its application in mental disorders

Open access
Shen, Hui, Chen, Meijuan, Cui, Donghong·2020·General Psychiatry
DOI 10.1136/gpsych-2020-100214PMC PMC7359050
Open this paper in CoChat — free accountOpen PDF

Abstract

In recent years, research on meditation as an important alternative therapy has developed rapidly and been widely applied in clinical medicine. Mechanism studies of meditation have also developed progressively, showing that meditation has great impact on brain structure and function, and epigenetic and telomere regulation. In line with this, the application of meditation has gradually been expanded to mental illness, most often applied for major depressive disorders and substance‐related and addictive disorders. The focus of this paper is to illustrate the biological mechanisms of meditation and its application in mental disorders.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This narrative review summarizes proposed biological mechanisms of meditation—brain structure/function, autonomic nervous system, inflammatory cytokines, epigenetics, and telomere biology—and its clinical application in mental disorders. It concludes meditation is promising as an adjunctive or alternative therapy, especially for major depressive disorder, substance-related/addictive disorders, and PTSD, but evidence remains limited or preliminary for schizophrenia and ADHD.

Key findings

  • Meditation is associated with brain changes: a meta-analysis found continuous changes in eight brain regions, including frontal cortex, sensory cortex/insula, hippocampus, anterior/medial cingulate cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, and corpus callosum; meditation increases hippocampal volume and cortical thickness in prefrontal, insula, and anterior cingulate cortex. Activation meta-analysis identified caudate nucleus, parahippocampus, and medial prefrontal cortex as core activated areas, and meditation attenuates default mode network activity.
  • Prolonged meditation can increase parasympathetic activity and decrease sympathetic innervation: as meditation time goes on, perceived effort and heart rate decrease while high-frequency heart rate variability increases. Different methods may have distinct effects: loving-kindness and monitoring meditation can activate the sympathetic nervous system, while focused attention meditation can activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
  • Meditation modulates inflammatory cytokines, epigenetics, and telomeres: MBSR prevented IL-10 downregulation in fibromyalgia; mindfulness practice was linked to lower IL-6 and TNF-α in primary open-angle glaucoma; in early breast cancer, TNF-α and IL-6 reduced while IFN-γ increased. Advanced meditators showed reduced expression of HDAC 2, 3, and 9 and downregulated COX2; epigenetic ageing significantly slowed during meditation; meditation was associated with higher telomerase activity in prostate cancer and slight telomere length increase or no shortening.
  • Clinical applications include major depressive disorder, substance-related/addictive disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and schizophrenia. MBCT reduced depressive relapse from 78% to 36% in patients with three or more relapses; in maintenance therapy, relapse was 44% with MBCT alone versus 47% with antidepressants. Evidence is described as insufficient for schizophrenia and for children/adolescents with ADHD.

Methods

  • Narrative review of biological mechanisms of meditation and its application in mental disorders, covering focused attention, open monitoring, transcendental meditation, loving-kindness meditation, mindfulness meditation, body–mind meditation, and mindfulness-based interventions.
  • Synthesizes findings from meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and the authors’ prior studies; no systematic review protocol, search strategy, or formal meta-analysis is described.
  • Main analysis is qualitative synthesis of brain, autonomic, inflammatory, epigenetic, telomere, and clinical outcome findings.

Limitations

  • Stated: current researchers use different meditation methods and diverse training durations, so it is not possible to systematically evaluate which type of meditation is more beneficial to which populations or diseases, or to completely elucidate the biological mechanism of meditation; future randomized controlled studies with sufficient samples are required.
  • Stated: evidence for meditation in schizophrenia and in children/adolescents with ADHD is preliminary or insufficient, and more high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.
  • Evident: as a narrative review, it does not report a systematic search, study quality appraisal, or quantitative synthesis; many mechanism findings come from heterogeneous studies, and epigenetics and telomere research are described as still in their infancy.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1136/gpsych-2020-100214

Cites

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 78 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Findingcitation

    8 months of meditation contributes to significant reductions in persistent hallucination and delusion symptoms of severe schizophrenic patients with more than a 20-year course.

    “Our study exhibits that 8 months of meditation contributes to significant reductions in persistent hallucination and delusion symptoms of severe schizophrenic patients with more than a 20-year course.73”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [73] Sheng J-L, Yan Y, Yang X-H, et al The effects of Mindfulness Meditation on hallucination and delusion in severe schizophrenia patients with more than 20 years’ medical history. CNS Neurosci Ther 2019; 25– 150 10.1111/cns.13067. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1111/cns.13067 PMC6436583 30264927 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Findingnone given

    Current researchers adopt different meditation methods and diverse training durations.

    “However, the current researchers adopt different meditation methods and diverse training durations, which leads to the inability to systematically evaluate which type of meditation is more beneficial to which populations or diseases, and to completely elucidate the biological mechanism of meditation.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Premisecitation

    Meditation increases hippocampal volume.

    “Recent studies have further confirmed that meditation increases the hippocampal volume8 and enhances the cortical thickness of the prefrontal, insula and anterior cingulate cortex.9 10”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [8] Yang C-C, Barrós-Loscertales A, Li M, et al Alterations in brain structure and amplitude of low-frequency after 8 weeks of mindfulness meditation training in Meditation-Naïve subjects. Sci Rep 2019; 9 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. PMC6662752 31358842

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Premisecitation

    There exists a dynamic process for brain activation by meditation: at the beginning, bilateral subfrontal and temporal regions are obviously activated; as meditation deepens, activation weakens and concentrates on the right subfrontal cortex/right insula and the meso/epithelial layer of right temporal lobe.

    “Moreover, there exists a dynamic process for brain activation by meditation. At the beginning of meditation, the bilateral subfrontal and temporal regions are obviously activated. As the meditation process goes deeper, the activation becomes weak by degrees, with activation concentrating just on the right subfrontal cortex/right insula and the meso/epithelial layer of right temporal lobe in the”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [12] Hernández SE, Suero J, Rubia K, et al Monitoring the neural activity of the state of mental silence while practicing Sahaja yoga meditation. J Altern Complement Med 2015; 21– 179. 10.1089/acm.2013.0450. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 25671603 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Premisecitation

    The depth of meditation is closely associated with the medial frontal-insula-striatum network.

    “In addition, the depth of meditation is closely associated with the medial frontal–insula–striatum network.10”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10] Hernández SE, Barros-Loscertales A, Xiao Y, et al Gray matter and functional connectivity in anterior cingulate cortex are associated with the state of mental silence during Sahaja yoga meditation. Neuroscience 2018; 371– 406 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.12.017. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.12.017 29275207 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims. 44
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 11

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    In monks following persistent meditation practice, reduced DMN activity and reconstruction of the large-scale network of EEG gamma waves as well as theta waves by meditation were observed.

    “Our study17 observed reduced DMN activity in monks following persistent meditation practice and reconstruction of the large-scale network of EEG gamma waves as well as theta waves by meditation.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Jiang H, He B, Guo X, et al Brain–Heart interactions underlying traditional Tibetan Buddhist meditation. Cereb Cortex 2019; 36 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 31163086

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    The immediate effect of meditation on heart regulation is connected with the reconstruction of the γ-wave brain network, and prolonged regulation of meditation for cardiac rhythm is related to the reconstruction of the θ-wave brain network.

    “The immediate effect of meditation on heart regulation is connected with the reconstruction of the γ-wave brain network, and prolonged regulation of meditation for cardiac rhythm is related to the reconstruction of the θ-wave brain network.17”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Jiang H, He B, Guo X, et al Brain–Heart interactions underlying traditional Tibetan Buddhist meditation. Cereb Cortex 2019; 36 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 31163086

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingcitation

    Meditation was linked to cardiac function through the coupling of neural viscera and the spontaneous massive spatiotemporal brain network activity and mediated the stability of ANS function.

    “The results demonstrated that meditation was linked to cardiac function through the coupling of neural viscera and the spontaneous massive spatiotemporal brain network activity and mediated the stability of ANS function.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Jiang H, He B, Guo X, et al Brain–Heart interactions underlying traditional Tibetan Buddhist meditation. Cereb Cortex 2019; 36 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 31163086

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    8 weeks of MM effectively relieves depression and anxiety emotions and improves sleep quality.

    “Meditation is relatively efficacious in the acute and subacute phase of treatment of depressive disorders,38 and our research also indicates that 8 weeks of MM effectively relieves depression and anxiety emotions and improves sleep quality.39”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [39] Xue T, Li H, Wang M-T, et al Mindfulness meditation improves metabolic profiles in healthy and depressive participants. CNS Neurosci Ther 2018; 24– 574. 10.1111/cns.12816. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1111/cns.12816 PMC6489951 29405585

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    In recent years, the application of meditation in the psychiatric field has gradually received attention.

    “In recent years, the application of meditation in the psychiatric field has gradually received attention.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation is most often applied for major depressive disorders and substance-related and addictive disorders among mental illnesses.

    “In line with this, the application of meditation has gradually been expanded to mental illness, most often applied for major depressive disorders and substance-related and addictive disorders.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The meditator experiences an initially intense self-control neural process to calm the brain and a reduction of neuron activity as the depth of meditation in silence increases.

    “It can be seen that the meditator experiences an initially intense self-control neural process to calm the brain and the reduction of neuron activity as the depth of meditation in silence increases.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Various kinds of meditation can change brain structure, adjust brain function, reconstruct brain networks and preserve the homeostasis of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

    “Studies demonstrate that various kinds of meditation can change brain structure, adjust brain function, reconstruct brain networks and preserve the homeostasis of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    The caudate nucleus and putamen participate in attention and shield irrelevant information, enabling a meditative state to be realised and maintained; the parahippocampus prevents distraction; the medial prefrontal cortex enhances self-awareness during meditation.

    “The caudate nucleus and putamen participate in attention and shield irrelevant information, which enable a meditative state to be realised and maintained; the parahippocampus prevents distraction; the medial prefrontal cortex enhances self-awareness during meditation.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The mechanisms underlying the effects of meditation on the brain may be far more complicated than what we found, and are more relevant to alterations in large-scale brain networks.

    “In summary, the mechanisms underlying the effects of meditation on the brain may be far more complicated than what we found, which is more relevant to alterations in large-scale brain networks.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Meditation practice can change brain morphology with higher cortex thickness, grey matter volume and density.

    “In short, meditation practice can change brain morphology with higher cortex thickness, grey matter volume and density.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    LKM increases cortical thickness and improves brain function in multiple areas of the bilateral prefrontal and insula, which are involved in social emotion networks in meditation practice.

    “LKM can not only increase cortical thickness, but also improve the brain function which is seen in multiple areas of the bilateral prefrontal and insula, which are involved in the social emotion networks in meditation practice.9”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [9] Engen HG, Bernhardt BC, Skottnik L, et al Structural changes in socio-affective networks: multi-modal MRI findings in long-term meditation practitioners. Neuropsychologia 2018; 116– 33 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2017.08.024. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2017.08.024 28842274

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation has great impact on brain structure and function, and epigenetic and telomere regulation.

    “Mechanism studies of meditation have also developed progressively, showing that meditation has great impact on brain structure and function, and epigenetic and telomere regulation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Meditation attenuates activity of the default mode network (DMN), with dysfunction of the DMN subsystem in the anterior (medial prefrontal cortex) and posterior (cingulate cortex) following a larger number of long-term meditations.

    “Furthermore, meditation also attenuates activity of the default mode network (DMN),14 with dysfunction of the DMN subsystem in the anterior (medial prefrontal cortex) and posterior (cingulate cortex) following a larger number of long-term meditations.15 16”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [14] Berkovich-Ohana A, Glicksohn J, Ben-Soussan TD, et al Creativity is enhanced by long-term mindfulness training and is negatively correlated with trait Default-Mode-Related Low-Gamma Inter-Hemispheric connectivity. Mindfulness 2017; 8– 727 10.1007/s12671-016-0649-y. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1007/s12671-016-0649-y

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [15] Garrison KA, Zeffiro TA, Scheinost D, et al Meditation leads to reduced default mode network activity beyond an active task. Cogn Affect Behav Neurosci 2015; 15– 720 10.3758/s13415-015-0358-3. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.3758/s13415-015-0358-3 PMC4529365 25904238 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [16] Simon R, Engström M The default mode network as a biomarker for monitoring the therapeutic effects of meditation. Front Psychol 2015; 06 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00776. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00776 PMC4460295 26106351

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In major depressive disorders, meditation can be an alternative therapy of medication at the maintenance stage; meditation techniques may become an adjunctive treatment for patients with substance-related and addiction disorders as well as PTSD.

    “Particularly in major depressive disorders, it can be an alternative therapy of medication at the maintenance stage; meditation techniques may become an adjunctive treatment for patients with substance-related and addiction disorders as well as PTSD.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Long-term meditation modulates epigenetics and promotes health-related gene expression.

    “Long-term meditation modulates epigenetics and promotes health-related gene expression.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The application of meditation techniques is still in its early stages in schizophrenia and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), and more research is required to further verify its efficacy.

    “However, the application of meditation techniques is still in its early stages in schizophrenia and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), and more research is required to further verify its efficacy.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Meditation can impact the expression of multiple telomere-related genes, especially producing more positive effects on telomere regulation in meditation training.

    “In addition, meditation can also impact the expression of multiple telomere-related genes,36 especially producing more positive effects on telomere regulation in meditation training.37”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [36] Epel ES, Puterman E, Lin J, et al Meditation and vacation effects have an impact on disease-associated molecular phenotypes. Transl Psychiatry 2016; 6 10.1038/tp.2016.164. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1038/tp.2016.164 PMC5022094 27576169 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [37] Conklin QA, King BG, Zanesco AP, et al Insight meditation and telomere biology: the effects of intensive retreat and the Moderating role of personality. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 70– 245 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.03.003. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.03.003 29518528 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Prolonged meditation can enhance autonomic nerve function, increase parasympathetic nerve activity and decline sympathetic innervation.

    “Prolonged meditation can enhance autonomic nerve function, increase parasympathetic nerve activity and decline sympathetic innervation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    As meditation time goes on, the subjective effort perceived by meditators will decrease, and then HR will decrease, while the high frequency HRV will increase.

    “As meditation time goes on, the subjective effort perceived by meditators will decrease, and then HR will decrease, while the high frequency HRV will increase.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation technology is gradually applied to the treatment and prevention of various mental illnesses.

    “To date, meditation technology is gradually applied to the treatment and prevention of various mental illnesses.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    High-frequency HRV is an index of parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity, and it is correlated with attention, working memory and emotion regulation.

    “As is known, high-frequency HRV is an index of parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity, and it is correlated with attention, working memory and emotion regulation.18”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [18] Reyes del Paso GA, Langewitz W, Mulder LJM, et al The utility of low frequency heart rate variability as an index of sympathetic cardiac tone: a review with emphasis on a reanalysis of previous studies. Psychophysiology 2013; 50– 487 10.1111/psyp.12027. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1111/psyp.12027 23445494 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The rate of epigenetic ageing significantly slows during meditation, thereby meditation has effects on anti-ageing.

    “The rate of epigenetic ageing significantly slows during meditation, thereby meditation has effects on anti-ageing.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Meditation intervention is related to a slight increase in telomere length or no change without shortening.

    “Several studies have also indicated that meditation intervention is related to an slight increase in telomere length34 or no change without shortening.35”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [34] Tolahunase M, Sagar R, Dada R Impact of yoga and meditation on cellular aging in apparently healthy individuals: a prospective, open-label single-arm exploratory study. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2017; 2017 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. PMC5278216 28191278

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [35] Carlson LE, Beattie TL, Giese-Davis J, et al Mindfulness-based cancer recovery and supportive-expressive therapy maintain telomere length relative to controls in distressed breast cancer survivors. Cancer 2015; 121– 484 10.1002/cncr.29063. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1002/cncr.29063 25367403

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Meditations concerning positive psychological intentions, such as LKM and monitoring meditation, can activate SNS and enhance alertness; FA can activate PNS to help practitioners reach relaxation.

    “Meditations concerning positive psychological intentions, such as LKM and monitoring meditation can activate SNS and enhance alertness; FA can activate PNS to help practitioners reach relaxation.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [20] Lumma AL, Kok BE, Singer T Corrigendum: “Is meditation always relaxing? Investigating heart rate, heart rate variability, experienced effort and likeability during training of three types of meditation”. Int. J. Psychophysiol; 117: 38– 45. (S0167876015001658)(10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2015.04.017). International Journal of Psychophysiology 2017;117:126-30 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2017.02.014[published Online First: Epub Date]. 25937346

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In patients diagnosed with early breast cancer after meditation, expression levels of TNF-α and IL-6 reduced, while expression levels of interferon γ (IFN-γ) increased.

    “It has been noted that expression levels of TNF-α and IL-6 reduced, while expression levels of interferon γ(IFN-γ) increased in patients diagnosed with early breast cancer after meditation.23”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23] Witek Janusek L, Tell D, Mathews HL Mindfulness based stress reduction provides psychological benefit and restores immune function of women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: a randomized trial with active control. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 80– 373 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.04.012. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.04.012 30953776

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Yoga combined with meditation boosts immunity, enhancing both inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

    “Yoga combined with meditation allowed the immunity of people to be boosted,27 thereby enhancing both inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [27] Cahn BR, Goodman MS, Peterson CT, et al Yoga, meditation and Mind-body health: increased BDNF, cortisol awakening response, and altered inflammatory marker expression after a 3-month yoga and meditation retreat. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00315. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00315 PMC5483482 28694775

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    The expression of the proinflammatory gene COX2, depending on the activity of deacetylated HDAC, is downregulated, which further explains the mechanisms of meditation in the treatment of major depressive disorder and inflammation-related diseases.

    “Meanwhile, the expression of the proinflammatory gene COX2, depending on the activity of deacetylated HDAC, is downregulated, which further explains the mechanisms of meditation in the treatment of major depressive disorder and inflammation-related diseases.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [28] Kaliman P, Álvarez-López MJ, Cosín-Tomás M, et al Rapid changes in histone deacetylases and inflammatory gene expression in expert meditators. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 40– 107 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.11.004. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.11.004 PMC4039194 24485481

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Telomere length increases and the expression of Gar1 and hnRNPA 1 elevate.

    “Not only does telomere length increase, but also the expression of Gar1 and hnRNPA 1 (the gene encoding a protein that binds to telomerase RNA and DNA) elevate.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [37] Conklin QA, King BG, Zanesco AP, et al Insight meditation and telomere biology: the effects of intensive retreat and the Moderating role of personality. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 70– 245 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.03.003. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.03.003 29518528

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Meditation helps inflammatory cytokines in vivo to maintain a fine-tuning balance, sometimes promoting inflammatory responses and sometimes suppressing excessive inflammatory responses.

    “In general, meditation helps inflammatory cytokines in vivo to maintain a fine-tuning balance, sometimes promoting inflammatory responses and sometimes suppressing excessive inflammatory responses.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The efficacy of meditation intervention in adult patients diagnosed with ADHD is relatively manifest, prevailingly using MBIs.

    “Up to now, the efficacy of meditation intervention in adult patients diagnosed with ADHD is relatively manifest, prevailingly using MBIs.59”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [59] Poissant H, Mendrek A, Talbot N, et al Behavioral and cognitive impacts of Mindfulness-Based interventions on adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review. Behav Neurol 2019; 2019– 16 10.1155/2019/5682050. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1155/2019/5682050 PMC6476147 31093302

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    It displays improvements in emotional problems in adults with depression and anxiety along with remarkable decreases in the use of stimulants.

    “In addition, it displays improvements in emotional problems in adults with depression and anxiety along with remarkable decreases in the use of stimulants.51”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [51] Glasner-Edwards S, Mooney L, Ang A, et al Mindfulness based relapse prevention improves stimulant use among adults with major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 156 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.07.1135. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.07.1135

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    ACT intervention decreases craving behaviour of drug abusers as well as reuse of substance, relieves pain in patients with chronic pain comorbid with opioid addiction and suppresses craving for opioids.

    “ACT intervention decreases the craving behaviour of drug abusers47 as well as reuse of substance,48 relieves pain in patients with chronic pain comorbid with opioid addiction and suppresses craving for opioids.49”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [47] Shorey RC, Elmquist J, Gawrysiak MJ, et al A randomized controlled trial of a mindfulness and acceptance group therapy for residential substance use patients. Subst Use Misuse 2017; 52– 1410 10.1080/10826084.2017.1284232. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1080/10826084.2017.1284232 PMC6080615 28430015 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [48] Lee EB, An W, Levin ME, et al An initial meta-analysis of acceptance and commitment therapy for treating substance use disorders. Drug Alcohol Depend 2015; 155– 7. 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.08.004. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.08.004 26298552 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [49] Smallwood RF, Potter JS, Robin DA Neurophysiological mechanisms in acceptance and commitment therapy in opioid-addicted patients with chronic pain. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2016; 250– 14. 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2016.03.001. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. PMC4842257 27107155 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Mindfulness intervention can considerably improve attention in adults with ADHD, with additional improvements in executive functioning, working memory and anxiety and depressive emotions.

    “Mindfulness intervention can considerably improve attention in adults with ADHD,60–63 with additional improvements in executive functioning,63 working memory60 and anxiety and depressive emotions.61”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [60] Bachmann K, Lam AP, Sörös P, et al Effects of mindfulness and psychoeducation on working memory in adult ADHD: a randomised, controlled fMRI study. Behav Res Ther 2018; 106– 56 10.1016/j.brat.2018.05.002. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.brat.2018.05.002 29758392 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [61] Gu Y, Xu G, Zhu Y A randomized controlled trial of Mindfulness-Based cognitive therapy for college students with ADHD. J Atten Disord 2018; 22– 399 10.1177/1087054716686183. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1177/1087054716686183 28038496 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [62] Hepark S, Janssen L, de Vries A, et al The efficacy of adapted MBCT on core symptoms and executive functioning in adults with ADHD: a preliminary randomized controlled trial. J Atten Disord 2019; 23– 362 10.1177/1087054715613587. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1177/1087054715613587 26588940 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [63] Janssen L, Kan CC, Carpentier PJ, et al Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy V. treatment as usual in adults with ADHD: a multicentre, single-blind, randomised controlled trial. Psychol Med 2019; 49– 65. 10.1017/S0033291718000429. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1017/S0033291718000429 29486807 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Mindfulness practice reduces emotion distress, craving and withdrawal symptoms for nicotine-deprived smokers, in combination with lower relapse in smoking cessation.

    “Mindfulness practice reduces the emotion distress, craving and withdrawal symptoms for nicotine-deprived smokers,45 in combination with lower relapse in smoking cessation.46”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [45] Luberto CM, McLeish AC The effects of a brief mindfulness exercise on state mindfulness and affective outcomes among adult daily smokers. Addict Behav 2018; 77– 80. 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.09.013. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.09.013 28965070 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [46] Oikonomou MT, Arvanitis M, Sokolove RL Mindfulness training for smoking cessation: a meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials. J Health Psychol 2017; 22– 1850. 10.1177/1359105316637667. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1177/1359105316637667 27044630 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    MM may be an adjunctive treatment for adults with PTSD who experienced sexual abuse in childhood, with interventions yielding effects on PTSD symptom reduction and anxiety as well as depression relief.

    “Next, MM may be an adjunctive treatment for adults with PTSD who experienced sexual abuse in childhood, with interventions yielding effects on PTSD symptom reduction and anxiety as well as depression relief.57”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [57] Earley MD, Chesney MA, Frye J, et al Mindfulness intervention for child abuse survivors: a 2.5-year follow-up. J Clin Psychol 2014; 70– 941 10.1002/jclp.22102. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1002/jclp.22102 24844944

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    TM ameliorates the symptoms of PTSD and improves depressive emotions for college students in South Africa.

    “Other studies showed that TM also ameliorates the symptoms of PTSD and improves depressive emotions for college students in South Africa.58”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [58] Bandy CL, Dillbeck MC, Sezibera V, et al Reduction of PTSD in South African university students using transcendental meditation practice. Psychol Rep 2020; 123– 740. 10.1177/0033294119828036. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 30777793 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Meditation interventions yield positive effects on PTSD among veterans, which can alleviate intrusion and avoidance, modulate emotions and calm breathing.

    “It is apparent that meditation interventions yield positive effects on PTSD among veterans,53–55 which can alleviate intrusion and avoidance, modulate emotions and calm breathing.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [53] Nidich S, Mills PJ, Rainforth M, et al Non-trauma-focused meditation versus exposure therapy in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet Psychiatry 2018; 5– 986. 10.1016/S2215-0366(18)30384-5. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/S2215-0366(18)30384-5 30449712

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [54] Mathersul DC, Tang JS, Schulz-Heik RJ, et al Study protocol for a non-inferiority randomised controlled trial of sky breathing meditation versus cognitive processing therapy for PTSD among Veterans. BMJ Open 2019; 9 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027150. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027150 PMC6500221 30948610

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [55] Seppälä EM, Nitschke JB, Tudorascu DL, et al Breathing-based meditation decreases posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in U.S. military veterans: a randomized controlled longitudinal study. J Trauma Stress 2014; 27– 405 10.1002/jts.21936. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1002/jts.21936 PMC4309518 25158633

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    B-M technology can help young adults to regulate the management of emotion and decrease alcohol and drug abuse.

    “Similarly, B-M technology can help young adults to regulate the management of emotion and decrease alcohol and drug abuse.52”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [52] Park C, Russell B, Fendrich M Mind-Body approaches to prevention and intervention for alcohol and other drug use/abuse in young adults. Medicines 2018; 5 10.3390/medicines5030064. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.3390/medicines5030064 PMC6164017 29954058

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Meditation technology can help more patients with PTSD to get rid of pain and return to a normal life.

    “Subsequently, it can be seen that meditation technology can help more patients with PTSD to get rid of pain and return to a normal life.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    MBRP eases craving for alcohol in alcohol-dependent patients, alleviates anxiety and depression and improves quality of life.

    “Furthermore, MBRP eases the craving for alcohol in alcohol-dependent patients, alleviates anxiety and depression and improves quality of life.50”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [50] von Hammerstein C, Khazaal Y, Dupuis M, et al Feasibility, acceptability and preliminary outcomes of a mindfulness-based relapse prevention program in a naturalistic setting among treatment-seeking patients with alcohol use disorder: a prospective observational study. BMJ Open 2019; 9. 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026839. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026839 PMC6550005 31154307

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation techniques are being applied to substance-related and addiction disorders, including alcohol use disorders, substance use disorders, tobacco use disorders, cannabis and stimulant use disorders, with the most commonly used techniques being MBRP and ACT.

    “Increasingly, meditation techniques are being applied to substance-related and addiction disorders, including alcohol use disorders, substance use disorders, tobacco use disorders, cannabis and stimulant use disorders, with the most commonly used techniques being MBRP and ACT.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Meditation interventions provide insufficient evidence in children and adolescents with ADHD and it is hard to identify its efficacy.

    “However, meditation interventions provide insufficient evidence in children and adolescents with ADHD and it is hard to identify its efficacy.64”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [64] Zhang J, Díaz-Román A, Cortese S Meditation-based therapies for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Evid Based Ment Health 2018; 21– 94 10.1136/ebmental-2018-300015. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1136/ebmental-2018-300015 PMC10270372 29991532

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation techniques have been tried for patients with schizophrenia over the years, with main techniques used being MBIs and ACT.

    “Meditation techniques have been tried for patients with schizophrenia over the years, with main techniques used being MBIs and ACT.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    MM can relieve partial positive symptoms and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, enhance patients' awareness of their disease, shorten lengths of inpatient stay and reduce rehospitalisation rates.

    “Furthermore, MM can relieve partial positive symptoms71 72 and negative symptoms69 72 of schizophrenia, enhance patients’ awareness of their disease, shorten lengths of inpatient stay and reduce rehospitalisation rates.71 72”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [69] Tabak NT, Horan WP, Green MF Mindfulness in schizophrenia: associations with self-reported motivation, emotion regulation, dysfunctional attitudes, and negative symptoms. Schizophr Res 2015; 168– 542 10.1016/j.schres.2015.07.030. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1016/j.schres.2015.07.030 PMC4591204 26232242 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [71] Chien WT, Thompson DR Effects of a mindfulness-based psychoeducation programme for Chinese patients with schizophrenia: 2-year follow-up. Br J Psychiatry 2014; 205– 59 10.1192/bjp.bp.113.134635. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1192/bjp.bp.113.134635 24809397 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [72] Chien WT, Bressington D, Yip A, et al An international multi-site, randomized controlled trial of a mindfulness-based psychoeducation group programme for people with schizophrenia. Psychol Med 2017; 47– 2096 10.1017/S0033291717000526. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1017/S0033291717000526 PMC5551382 28374661 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Although meditation interventions make initial progress in patients with schizophrenia, the evidence from these findings appears to not be sufficient, and randomised controlled trials in larger cohorts are warranted to further validate.

    “Although meditation interventions make initial progress in patients with schizophrenia, the evidence from these findings appears to not be sufficient, and randomised controlled trials in larger cohorts are warranted to further validate.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Preliminary evidence shows that yoga and mindfulness interventions can decrease core symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents and that joint participation in mindfulness-based interventions between parents and children with ADHD can help to relieve parental stress and over-reactivity.

    “Preliminary evidence shows that yoga and mindfulness interventions can decrease core symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents65 66 and that joint participation in mindfulness-based interventions between parents and children with ADHD can help to relieve parental stress and over-reactivity.65 67”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [65] Lo HHM WSWL, Wong JYH, et al The effects of family-based mindfulness intervention on ADHD Symptomology in young children and their parents: a randomized control trial. Journal of attention disorders 2017 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 29185375 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [66] Hariprasad VR, Arasappa R, Varambally S, et al Feasibility and efficacy of yoga as an add-on intervention in attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder: an exploratory study. Indian J Psychiatry 2013; 55– 84 [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 24049203 PMC3768216 source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [67] Gershy N, Meehan KB, Omer H, et al Randomized clinical trial of mindfulness skills augmentation in parent training. Child Youth Care Forum 2017; 46– 803 10.1007/s10566-017-9411-4. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1007/s10566-017-9411-4 source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation has become an adjunctive and alternative therapy for depression, PTSD and ADHD.

    “It has become an adjunctive and alternative therapy for depression, PTSD and ADHD”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    MM decreases pain and depressive emotions associated with auditory hallucinations and reduces the occurrence of various crisis situations.

    “In particular, it decreases pain and depressive emotions associated with auditory hallucinations70 and reduces the occurrence of various crisis situations.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [70] Louise S, Rossell SL, Thomas N The acceptability, feasibility and potential outcomes of an individual Mindfulness-Based intervention for hearing voices. Behav Cogn Psychother 2019; 47– 216. 10.1017/S1352465818000425. [Epub ahead of print: Online First: Epub Date]. 10.1017/S1352465818000425 29983128

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation has been carried out for the acute and remission stages of treatment for severe schizophrenia.

    “and has been carried out for the acute and remission stages of treatment for severe schizophrenia.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Meditation can ameliorate emotional distress, craving and withdrawal symptoms in substance addiction.

    “Additionally, it can ameliorate emotional distress, craving and withdrawal symptoms in substance addiction.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
51 of 51

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Telomere length is an indicator of cell ageing and physiological stress, which gradually shortens during cell division and cell damages.

    “Telomere length is an indicator of cell ageing and physiological stress, which gradually shortens during cell division and cell damages.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) are valid biomarkers of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, especially high-frequency HRV.

    “Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) are frequently used as biomarkers of ANS activity, especially high-frequency HRV.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    PTSD is a complicated and refractory mental illness that easily occurs after severe trauma, and neither medication nor trauma psychotherapy can completely eliminate its symptoms.

    “PTSD is a complicated and refractory mental illness that easily occurs after severe trauma. Neither medication nor trauma psychotherapy (cognitive processing therapy) can completely eliminate its symptoms.”
3 of 3

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

The citation lists haven’t been fetched yet

References 77 · Cited by 44

Research works printed but not linked: 2

  1. XiaoL JFL.The discussions on the definition of Tai Chi[C].Proceedings of the 6th Member Congress and Academic Annual Meeting of the Chinese Medical Qigong Society.Proceedings of the 6th Member Congress and Academic Annual Meeting of the Chinese Medical Qigong Society China 2019:381–4.
  2. International Journal of Psychophysiology 2017;117:126‐30 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2017.02.014[published Online First: Epub Date]. · DOI

Authors
Shen, H., Chen, M., & Cui, D.
Affiliations
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (CN)
Corresponding author
Cui, Donghong
ORCID
Venue
General Psychiatry
Publisher
Wiley
Published
2020-07-13
Volume
33
Issue
4
Pages
e100214-e100214
ISSN
  • 2096-5923 (ISSN-L)
  • 2517-729X
DOI
10.1136/gpsych-2020-100214
PMC
PMC7359050
OpenAlex
W3042291468
Cited by
44
References
77
Citations by year
2026: 6 · 2025: 11 · 2024: 9 · 2023: 7 · 2022: 5 · 2021: 6
FWCI
0.35
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • General Psychiatry (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Funders
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (81671336, 2017YFC0909200)
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University (14JCRZ05, YG2016ZD06)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions
  • Social Sciences › Health › Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Neurology › Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Studies
Keywords
meditation, biological mechanisms, mental illness, brain structure and function, epigenetic regulation, telomere regulation, major depressive disorder, substance-related and addictive disorders, complementary and alternative medicine

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-09.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-09.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review