Immunology and Cell Biology

Neuroimmunology & Brain–Immune Interactions

Neuroimmunology examines the bidirectional communication between the immune system and the nervous system. Microglia, astrocytes, peripheral immune cells, and cytokines play critical roles in shaping brain development, neuroinflammation, and neural repair. This field investigates how immune dysregulation contributes to neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, infections of the nervous system, and traumatic brain injury. Emerging research highlights how stress, microbiome signals, and systemic inflammation influence neural function and behavior. Conversely, neuronal signals can regulate immune responses and tissue homeostasis. Tools such as advanced neuroimaging, single-cell sequencing, and neural–immune interface models are transforming understanding of neuroimmune pathways. Insights gained are driving the development of targeted therapies for conditions like multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and neuroinflammatory syndromes, with a focus on restoring balance between the brain and immune system.