When the tail can't wag the dog: the implications of CNS-intrinsic initiation of neuroinflammation

The CNS (central nervous system) is unquestionably the central organ that regulates directly or indirectly all physiological systems in the mammalian body. Yet, when considering the defence of the CNS from pathogens, the CNS has often been considered passive and subservient to the pro-inflammatory responses of the immune system. In this view, neuroinflammatory disorders are examples of when the tail (the immune system) wags the dog (the CNS) to the detriment of an individual''s function and survival.