Doenças Infecciosas Clínicas e Prática

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Neurological Siege: Viral Neuroinvasion and the Inflammatory Response in the CNS

Michel Goldberg

Neuroinvasion and inflammation in viral central nervous system (CNS) infections are complex processes that play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various viral diseases. Viruses have evolved diverse mechanisms to gain entry into the CNS, causing severe neurological complications. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for devising effective treatments and preventive measures. Neuroinvasion can occur through the hematogenous route, neuroaxonal transport, or direct invasion. Once inside the CNS, viruses elicit an immune response, involving microglia and peripheral immune cells, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory molecules. While this response is essential for viral clearance, excessive inflammation can lead to neuronal damage and BBB disruption, facilitating immune cell infiltration into the CNS. The resulting neuroinflammation can cause various neurological complications such as encephalitis and meningitis. Improved understanding of neuroinvasion and inflammation will pave the way for targeted therapies and vaccine development to combat viral CNS infections and safeguard neurological health.