Neurodevelopmental effects of early life stress: PFC and cognition

Abstract

Early life stress (ELS) exerts lasting effects on prefrontal cortex (PFC) development and function, contributing to cognitive and emotional vulnerabilities later in life. This review synthesizes findings from human studies and animal models showing that ELS disrupts PFC-dependent cognitive functions, including executive control, attention, working memory, and decision-making. We examine how ELS alters functional connectivity, neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin, GABA, and Dopamine, and hormonal signaling, particularly glucocorticoid regulation. Finally, we explore evidence for epigenetic mechanisms within the PFC that mediate the long-term impact of ELS on cognition and mental health.