Zika virus challenges for neuropsychiatry
Ana Cristina Simões E Silva1, Janaina Matos Moreira1, Roberta Maia Castro Romanelli2
1Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
|August 2, 2016
Summary
Zika virus (ZIKV) is linked to severe neurological issues like microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome. This review explores ZIKV's neurobiology and potential neuropsychiatric effects, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) was historically considered a mild arbovirus.
- Recent outbreaks in the Americas have highlighted ZIKV's potential for severe clinical manifestations, including congenital malformations (e.g., microcephaly) and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- The underlying mechanisms of ZIKV-associated neurological complications remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review existing literature on the neurobiology of Zika virus.
- To explore the potential neuropsychiatric manifestations associated with ZIKV infection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ZIKV neurobiology and neurological complications.
- Analysis of emerging evidence, particularly from in vitro studies, on ZIKV's effects on neuronal cells.
Main Results:
- ZIKV infection during pregnancy is potentially linked to congenital malformations like microcephaly.
- A temporal association exists between ZIKV outbreaks and increased Guillain-Barré syndrome cases.
- In vitro studies suggest ZIKV may directly impact neuronal cells.
Conclusions:
- ZIKV poses significant neurological risks beyond its historical perception.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms of ZIKV.
- Understanding ZIKV's neurobiology is vital for managing current and future outbreaks and their neurological sequelae.
