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The role of CNS macrophages in streptococcal meningoencephalitis

Vitka Gres1,2, Julia Kolter1,2, Daniel Erny3,4

  • 1Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.

Journal of Leukocyte Biology
|February 15, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Microglia and CNS macrophages interact with streptococci, a common cause of childhood meningitis. This review explores how these interactions impact brain inflammation and neuronal damage.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Microbiology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Microglia and CNS macrophages are key immune cells in the brain.
  • Streptococci are a primary cause of bacterial meningitis and encephalitis in children.
  • The blood-brain barrier restricts peripheral immune cell entry in healthy states.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the interplay between streptococci and CNS macrophages.
  • To understand the immune response during bacterial meningoencephalitis.
  • To elucidate mechanisms of host resistance, inflammation, and neuronal damage.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on streptococcal infections and CNS immunity.
  • Analysis of immune cell dynamics during meningoencephalitis.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on host-pathogen interactions in the brain.

Main Results:

  • Reciprocal interactions between streptococci and CNS macrophages are critical.
  • Bacterial meningoencephalitis alters the origin and function of CNS macrophages.
  • These interactions lead to host resistance, acute inflammation, and potential long-term neuronal damage.

Conclusions:

  • CNS macrophages play a central role in the response to streptococcal brain infections.
  • Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research is needed to mitigate inflammation and prevent neuronal injury.
Keywords:
Streptococcus agalactiaeStreptococcus pneumoniaemeningitismicroglia

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