neurotropism
Pronunciation: NEWR-oh-troh-pizm
Preferential targeting of nervous system tissue by pathogens, often leading to neuroinflammatory disease.
Full Definition
Neurotropism refers to the tendency of certain pathogens, particularly viruses, to preferentially infect and replicate within nervous system tissue. This selective targeting can result from specific receptor interactions, tissue-specific cellular environments, or evasion of local immune responses. Neurotropic pathogens can cause acute encephalitis, chronic neuroinflammation, or trigger autoimmune responses through molecular mimicry. Understanding neurotropism is crucial for recognizing infectious causes of neuroinflammatory disease and developing targeted therapeutic approaches. Examples include herpes simplex virus, JC virus, and various arboviruses that display distinct patterns of CNS involvement.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general tissue tropism and from neurotoxicity, which refers to toxic effects rather than preferential targeting.
In Context
- "The virus exhibited marked neurotropism, resulting in selective infection of hippocampal neurons." — Virology research paper
- "Understanding viral neurotropism is essential for predicting neurological complications of systemic infections." — Infectious disease review