What is it about?
Nature has given us self-defense mechanisms to deal with external stresses that can upset our body's equilibrium. Inflammation is one such mechanism and, in most cases is innocuous and brief. However, lf left unchecked inflammation can lead to serious, chronic disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. Manifestation of inflammation in the nervous system is especially perilous. Although not a primary cause of disease, neuroinflammation contributes importantly to a wide range of conditions, from neuropathic pain to multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
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Why is it important?
Non-resolving inflammation in the nervous system is one of today's most pressing and unmet medical needs. The current lack of effective treatments, for disorders ranging from chronic pain to autoimmune disorders presents society with both economic and personal burdens, that continue to grow as the world's population ages. Understanding the basis of neuroinflammation will help us develop new and effective therapies.
Perspectives
We hope that a greater appreciation of the health issues discussed in our article will provide a stimulus, both private and public, for confronting and overcoming these challenges.
STEPHEN SKAPER
University of Padua
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Neuroinflammation, Mast Cells, and Glia: Dangerous Liaisons, The Neuroscientist, January 2017, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/1073858416687249.
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