CNS Protein Protects Brain from Viral Damage, Has Therapeutic Potential

CNS Protein Protects Brain from Viral Damage, Has Therapeutic Potential

NIAID scientists have shown in mice that neurons, through the release of a protein called neuropeptide Y (NPY), can protect the brain from damage by retroviruses and potentially have therapeutic value. Their study shows that NPY helps suppress the recruitment of monocytes—part of the immune system response to viral infection—which can limit seizures and other types of damage to the brain. The scientists also show that mice deficient in NPY develop disease faster than those with normal NPY levels.

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