Immunological Roles of Cerebrospinal Fluid
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT Although viewed as an immune‐privileged organ for decades, there is growing awareness that the central nervous system (CNS) is in constant communication with the immune system. This neuroimmune communication occurs not within the CNS parenchyma, but instead at a series of immune‐rich border tissues: the choroid plexus, the meninges, and the skull. Facilitating this neuroimmune communication is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In the past decade, rapid advances have been made in CSF biology, showing that it performs waste clearance and antigen trafficking functions. CSF can directly access brain border compartments through specific anatomical sites to direct immune responses in these regions and mobilize immune cells to enter the CNS. Furthermore, the major routes of immune trafficking in the CNS lead first to the CSF, which, during inflammation, provides a hospitable environment for immune activation. Collectively, these properties make CSF not only important for the physical protection of the brain, but also for its immunology.
Source: Immunology and Cell Biology
DOI: 10.1111/imcb.70172
Authors: Anabelle S. Pasic, Leon C. D. Smyth
Institution: Monash University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,750
OpenAlex ID: W7225626688