Neuro-immune system

The neuro-immune system is a bidirectional communication network between the nervous system and the immune system, facilitating the exchange of signals to maintain physiological homeostasis (Besedovsky & del Rey, 2011, doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2011.03.010). It involves complex interactions between neurons, glial cells, and various immune cells, mediated by cytokines, neurotransmitters, and neuropeptides (Dantzer, 2018, doi:10.1038/s41583-018-0001-5). This system plays a critical role in monitoring the internal environment and responding to pathogens or injury through neuroinflammatory processes. Dysregulation of the neuro-immune axis is a hallmark of various pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis, as well as chronic pain and psychiatric disorders (Heneka et al., 2015, doi:10.1038/nature14192). While the neuro-immune system itself is not a single druggable molecule, it encompasses numerous specific therapeutic targets such as cytokine receptors and ion channels. Drugs targeting this system often aim to modulate immune cell trafficking or suppress excessive inflammatory signaling within the central nervous system (Steinman, 2012, doi:10.1038/ni.2325). Therapeutic strategies include the use of monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and immunomodulators to restore balance to the neuro-immune interface.

Other names

Neuroimmune systemNeuro-immune axisNeuroimmune interfaceNeuro-immune interaction

Modulation of neuro-immune signaling, inhibition of leukocyte migration across the blood-brain barrier, and suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production.