Neutrophil Biology in Injuries and Diseases of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems

Prog Neurobiol, 2023 · DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102488 · Published: September 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

Neutrophils, a type of immune cell, are increasingly recognized for their role in nervous system injuries and diseases, contrasting the traditional focus on microglia and macrophages. These cells, directed by specific chemokines, infiltrate tissues after damage or infection, influencing conditions like stroke, Alzheimer's, and spinal cord injuries. While past research emphasized their harmful effects, emerging findings highlight potential benefits, suggesting opportunities to modify their actions for improved health outcomes.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Neutrophils are involved in both detrimental and beneficial processes in the CNS and PNS, impacting conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury.
2
Specific neutrophil subpopulations, like Ly6GlowCD14hi neutrophils, support axonal regeneration in SCI, suggesting a pro-regenerative role for certain subsets.
3
NETs, formed by neutrophils, contribute to neurological conditions, necessitating careful controls and specific staining in studies to distinguish their effects.

Research Summary

Neutrophils, once viewed as simple pathogen-clearing cells, are now recognized as heterogeneous and dynamic immune cells with diverse functions in the nervous system. Their involvement spans from causing damage in some neurological diseases to promoting regeneration in others, indicating a complex and context-dependent role. Further research into neutrophil subtypes, interactions with other cells, and the gut-microbiome's influence on their activity holds promise for developing new therapeutic strategies.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Targeting

Modulating neutrophil activity (e.g., inhibiting NET formation or promoting N2 polarization) could improve outcomes in neurological disorders.

Subtype Specific Interventions

Targeting specific neutrophil subpopulations (e.g., Ly6GlowCD14hi) could enhance regeneration after nervous system injuries.

Gut Microbiome Modulation

Manipulating the gut microbiome to influence neutrophil behavior may offer novel therapeutic avenues for conditions like ALS.

Study Limitations

1
The precise mechanisms by which neutrophils exert their diverse effects in the nervous system remain unclear.
2
Distinguishing neutrophil-specific effects from those of other immune cells (e.g., macrophages) is challenging.
3
Inconsistencies in research findings, possibly due to slight differences in procedures and timing of pain assays.

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