A team led by Charles M. Rice at Rockefeller used mice to study how the brain senses infection. They injected West Nile virus (WNV) into mouse footpads and checked brains at several times. Within hours, antiviral genes called ISGs were active in the brain even though the virus was not detectable there.
Scientists tested patterns from microbes, called PAMPs, in the footpad. The brain reacted differently to different signals. When mice received the viral simulant poly(I:C) in the footpad and were later infected in the brain, more mice survived. This protection showed up for WNV, Powassan virus and for herpes simplex in these tests. The authors say the blood-brain barrier can act like an immune sensor and this idea might help prevent vector-borne brain inflammation.
Difficult words
- antiviral — that helps stop or fight viruses
- gene — part of DNA that gives instructionsgenes
- detectable — possible to find or see
- simulant — substance that mimics a real thing
- blood-brain barrier — layer of cells protecting brain from blood
- inflammation — body reaction causing swelling and redness
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might activating antiviral genes quickly help protect the brain?
- How do you think the blood-brain barrier can detect signals from the body?
- Do you know any examples of treatments that prepare the body against infection? Describe one.
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