"Uncovering Immune Memory: The Role of Astrocytes"

A study by investigators at Brigham and Women’s Hospital has revealed that astrocytes, traditionally non-immune cells in the central nervous system, can develop an immune memory, leading to enhanced pro-inflammatory responses upon re-exposure to immune stimuli. This immune memory is driven by an epigenetic mechanism involving the enzymes p300 and ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY). The findings suggest that astrocyte immune memory may play a significant role in chronic neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, offering new insights into disease pathology and potential therapeutic targets to mitigate CNS inflammation.