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Borna disease virus and psychiatry.
O Taieb1, J M Baleyte, P Mazet
1Department of Virology, CERVI, 47-83 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
Summary
Borna disease virus (BDV) causes immune-mediated central nervous system disease in animals. Further research is needed to confirm BDV
Area of Science:
- Neurovirology
- Immunology
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Disorders
Background:
- Borna disease virus (BDV) is a neurotropic RNA virus with a broad host range.
- BDV infection leads to immune-mediated CNS disease in animals, causing neurological and behavioral issues.
- Previous studies suggest a potential link between BDV and human psychiatric disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Borna disease virus in the pathogenesis of central nervous system diseases.
- To explore the potential association between BDV infection and psychiatric disorders in humans.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing serologic and molecular studies on BDV.
- Analysis of viral persistence and effects on brain cell function in animal models.
- Evaluation of evidence linking BDV to schizophrenia and affective disorders.
Main Results:
- BDV establishes persistent infections in the CNS.
- The virus can alter brain cell function, leading to neurodevelopmental and behavioral abnormalities.
- Evidence for BDV's role in human psychiatric disorders remains inconclusive, requiring further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Borna disease virus is a significant neurotropic pathogen with diverse effects on the CNS.
- While animal studies demonstrate BDV's capacity to induce neurological disturbances, its direct contribution to human psychiatric disorders requires more robust evidence.
- Further research is essential to elucidate the potential role of BDV in the etiology of conditions like schizophrenia and affective disorders.