Defense mechanisms in viral encephalitis Certain common viruses, for example herpesviruses, may rarely cause severe viral encephalitis presenting with life-threatening infection. How immune system protects the brain from viruses is incompletely understood. Although most humans are currently exposed to the herpesviruses, changing climate and environment may increase our exposure to viruses with ability to infect the brain. We have identified individuals with harmful genetic variants that sets them to viral encephalitis risk. These variants may cause dysfunction in the proteins with crucial roles in anti-viral defense. This study, conducted at the University of Oulu examines function of certain proteins by laboratory experiments together with researchers in France, USA and Canada. We hope to reveal novel mechanisms that protect our brain from infection. Such knowledge may eventually help in development of new treatments. More information: https://www.oulu.fi/en/researchers/pirjo-astrom

2023

2027