"Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which the body's immune reaction to viruses like influenza and HIV may cause learning and memory problems. This is the finding of a study led by researchers from NYU Langone Medical Center and published online May 15 in Nature Medicine. Evidence in mice suggests that the entry of a virus anywhere in the bloodstream turns on "first responder" immune cells called CX3CR1highLY6Clow monocytes, which then release the inflammatory signaling protein TNF-α. According to the authors of the study, TNF-α then travels to the brain where it blocks the formation of nerve cell connections needed to turn sensory information into memories. Although immune system activation by viruses has long been linked to cognitive problems, the underlying mechanisms have been poorly understood. In the new report.

https://ayietim./2017/05/16/certain-immune-reactions-to-viruses-may-be-responsible-for-learning-problems-research/