Neuroinflammation: Defining the Concept and its Implications in Neuroscience

Abstract Neuroinflammation is a complex and evolving concept central to understanding various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This article explores the origins and historical evolution of the term, tracing its shift from a purely anatomical descriptor to a dynamic process involving microglial and astrocytic activation, cytokine release, and blood-brain barrier dysfunction. Key cellular mechanisms and pathways, including cytokine cascades and transcription factors such as nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation, are discussed to highlight neuroinflammation's intricate regulatory network. Additionally, the clinical implications of neuroinflammation are examined in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. By clarifying the definition and mechanisms of neuroinflammation, this article aims to contribute to a more precise understanding of its role in disease pathology and potential therapeutic strategies.