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Entry of pathogens into the central nervous system
1Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10021, USA. tuomann@rockvax.rockefeller.edu
FEMS Microbiology Reviews
|July 1, 1996
Summary
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the central nervous system from pathogens. Understanding how microbes interact with the BBB can help prevent neurological damage from infections.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The blood-brain barrier (BBB) comprises tight junctions in cerebral capillaries and choroid plexus epithelium.
- Its molecular structure resembles a transporting epithelium, making cell culture models relevant for studying central nervous system (CNS) entry.
- Pathogens can breach the BBB via endothelial or epithelial targeting, leading to encephalitis or meningitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the molecular interactions between pathogens and the BBB.
- To identify potential strategies for interrupting neurological damage caused by CNS infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on BBB structure and pathogen interactions.
- Analysis of paracellular and transcellular routes of pathogen entry.
- Investigation of how microbial products affect BBB integrity.
Main Results:
- Pathogens target both the cerebral endothelium and choroid plexus epithelium.
- Diverse entry routes, including paracellular and transcellular penetration, are utilized by pathogens.
- Microbial products can compromise BBB function, leading to dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Understanding pathogen-BBB molecular interactions is crucial.
- This knowledge may offer pathways to prevent severe neurological complications of CNS infections.