Neuroimmunologie

Neuroimmunologie, or neuroimmunology, is the interdisciplinary study of interactions between the nervous system and the immune system. It examines how immune cells, molecules, and antibodies influence neural development, signaling, and plasticity, as well as how neural activity and the CNS environment shape immune responses. The field spans central and peripheral immune processes, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and neuroimmune disorders.

The central nervous system was historically considered immune-privileged, but it is now understood to maintain active immune surveillance. Resident glial cells, especially microglia and astrocytes, interact with infiltrating lymphocytes and circulating cytokines. The blood-brain barrier and meningeal compartments regulate entry of immune components, while meningeal lymphatics provide routes for immune communication. Neuroimmune signaling shapes synaptic pruning, learning, and recovery after injury.

Pathologies studied include autoimmune and autoinflammatory conditions such as multiple sclerosis, autoimmune encephalitis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, and Rasmussen’s encephalitis. Mechanisms involve autoantibodies targeting neural antigens, T-cell–mediated responses, and microglial activation leading to neuroinflammation and tissue damage. Infectious triggers, molecular mimicry, and sterile inflammation also play roles, linking infection, trauma, and systemic illness to CNS dysfunction.

Clinical applications include immunotherapies that modulate B cells, T cells, or cytokines, as well as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective strategies. Biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid and imaging support diagnosis and monitoring. Ongoing research investigates neuroimmune interfaces in neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, brain development, and recovery after injury, aiming to refine diagnostics and develop targeted treatments.

Neuroimmunologie remains a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of immunology and neuroscience.