Sensory neurons on guard: roles in pathogen defense and host immunity

Abstract

The nervous system, like the immune system, constantly interfaces with the environment, encountering threats, including pathogens. Recent discoveries reveal an emerging role for sensory neurons in host defense and immunity. Sensory neurons detect infections either by directly sensing microbial signals or through immune mediators. Beyond pathogen detection, they modulate immune responses and local inflammation by interacting with immune cells, influencing inflammation and pathogen clearance. Additionally, sensory neurons trigger protective reflexes — such as pain, coughing, sneezing, and itching — that can help expel pathogens but may also facilitate their spread. Sensory neurons may also encode and shape long-term immunity. Understanding the roles of neurons in pathogen defense could offer new insights into infectious diseases and highlight therapeutic opportunities for immune modulation.