Neuroinflammation attenuation is the clinical and physiological process of reducing or dampening the inflammatory response within the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Chronic, low-grade neuroinflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders, mood disturbances, and cognitive decline. Therapeutic strategies aimed at attenuation seek to protect neuronal integrity and restore normal brain function by modulating the activity of glial cells, such as microglia and astrocytes. Hormonal balance, particularly the influence of sex steroids, can significantly impact this attenuation process.
Origin
This term is rooted in the fields of neuroscience and immunology, evolving with the recognition that the brain is not an “immune-privileged” organ but rather possesses its own resident immune system. Attenuation emphasizes the goal of reducing the severity or magnitude of the inflammatory cascade.
Mechanism
The mechanism involves the modulation of microglial activation, preventing these resident immune cells from transitioning to a pro-inflammatory state that releases cytotoxic mediators like reactive oxygen species and inflammatory cytokines. Attenuation can occur via direct hormonal signaling, such as the anti-inflammatory effects of certain sex hormones, or through pharmaceutical agents that inhibit key inflammatory pathways. Successful attenuation restores the brain’s environment to a state conducive to neuronal health and synaptic plasticity.
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