Infections of the sense organs: defense mechanisms and consequences of infectious diseases

Infectious diseases remain a global threat, causing 15% of deaths annually, aggravated by the growth of antibiotic resistance and climate change. The sense organs are protected by unique neuroimmune mechanisms: the sense of smell is provided by sensory neurons and nasopharynx-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT), triggering a rapid immune response; imbalance during inflammation leads to anosmia. Hearing is protected by macrophage-like cochlear supporting cells, which produce interferons and phagocytize pathogens. Vision is protected by the tear film (containing lysozyme, IgA), cellular (T-lymphocytes, interferons) and humoral immunity. Infections have devastating consequences: Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae cause corneal scarring and blindness in newborns; S. pneumoniae provokes irreversible sensorineural hearing loss. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing neuroprotective strategies.