Topic: neurotropism

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection can lead to cerebral manifestations, potentially increasing the risk for neurodegenerative diseases. Some IAV strains, such as avian H7N7 subtype, are neurotropic and capable of invading and infecting resident cells in the brain. IAV-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines leads to activation of microglia, thereby potentially triggering neuronal damage and dysfunction. Microglial characteristics such as phagocytosis rate, activity and morphology are sex-dependent. Therefore, a better understanding of IAV neurotropism and the mechanisms leading to delet