Hematopoietic cell activation in the subventricular zone after Theiler's virus infection

Journal of Neuroinflammation, 2008 · DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-5-44 · Published: October 15, 2008

Simple Explanation

The study investigates the impact of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) infection on inflammation and neurogenesis within the subventricular zone (SVZ), a brain region crucial for stem cells and neuroblast migration. TMEV infection leads to CD45+ cell activation (inflammation) that occurs early in the forebrain, preceding inflammation in the cerebellum and spinal cord. The SVZ may attempt neuronal repair via emigration after TMEV infection, but this process is hindered by decreases in neuroblast numbers.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Eighty 6–7 week old female wild type SJL/J mice

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
CD45+ cell activation occurs early in the forebrain after TMEV infection, with the SVZ showing the most consistent activation.
2
SVZ neuroblasts emigrate into inflamed periventricular regions following TMEV infection.
3
A delayed decrease in neurogenesis, specifically a reduction in Dcx+ and PSA-NCAM+ SVZ neuroblasts, occurs after periventricular inflammation subsides.

Research Summary

The study investigates the effect of TMEV infection on inflammation and neurogenesis in the SVZ, a key area for brain repair. Results indicated that forebrain CD45+ cell activation precedes spinal cord activation, with the SVZ showing consistent CD45+ cell activation. The study suggests that after TMEV infection, the SVZ might attempt neuronal repair via emigration but is hampered by decreased neuroblast numbers.

Practical Implications

Understanding MS pathology

Periventricular regions, including the SVZ, are particularly affected in preclinical models and human MS, suggesting these regions are sensitive to the disease.

Therapeutic targets

Molecular interactions between CD45+ cells and SVZ neuroblasts could be targeted to augment neural repair.

Early intervention

Subtle forebrain inflammation may precede severe motor defects in MS, suggesting early intervention strategies focused on forebrain inflammation may be beneficial.

Study Limitations

1
The specific mechanisms underlying the relationship between CD45+ cell activation and neuroblast emigration need further investigation.
2
Longer-term effects of TMEV infection on neurogenesis and neuronal function were not fully explored.
3
The study focuses primarily on the TMEV model, and results may not be directly generalizable to all forms of MS or other demyelinating diseases.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Immunology