Astrocytes, star-shaped glial cells in the Central Nervous System (CNS), play crucial roles in maintaining brain homeostasis, regulating synaptic function, and supporting neuronal health. Recent research has increasingly highlighted their significant involvement in the immune response to viral neuropathies. Viral infections of the CNS pose severe threats due to the brain's restricted ability to regenerate and the potential for long-term neurological deficits. Astrocytes, through their interactions with immune cells, cytokine production, and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), are key players in the CNS's defense mechanisms against viral pathogens. This article reviews current literature on astrocytes' roles in detecting viral infections, orchestrating the immune response, and mitigating neuronal damage. By exploring these dynamics, we aim to elucidate astrocytes' potential as therapeutic targets in managing viral neuropathies.
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Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medicine received 59 citations as per Google Scholar report
