Neuroimmune Mechanisms of Tic Disorders in Children (Literature review)
Keywords:
tic disorders; children; neuroimmune mechanisms; neuroinflammation; autoimmune processes; basal ganglia; cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuits; cytokines; microglia; blood–brain barrier; streptococcal infection; PANDAS syndrome; neuroimmune interaction; pathogenesis of tic disorders.Abstract
Tic disorders in children represent a heterogeneous group of neuropsychiatric conditions characterized by brief, stereotyped, and involuntary motor movements and/or vocalizations. Traditionally, the pathogenesis of these disorders has been associated with dysfunction of the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical neural circuits and an imbalance in dopaminergic neurotransmission. However, contemporary studies increasingly emphasize the significant role of neuroimmune interactions in the development and clinical course of tic disorders. The aim of this work is to systematize and analyze current concepts regarding neuroimmune mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of tic disorders in childhood.
Accumulated scientific evidence suggests the possible involvement of immune-inflammatory processes, autoimmune reactions, and neuroinflammation in the onset and exacerbation of tic symptoms. Particular importance is attributed to dysregulation of the cytokine profile, activation of microglial cells, impairment of the functional integrity of the blood–brain barrier, and the production of autoantibodies directed against neuronal structures, particularly components of the basal ganglia. In addition, in some patients an association has been identified between the onset or exacerbation of tic symptoms and previous infectious diseases, especially those of streptococcal origin, which is reflected in the concept of PANDAS syndrome. It is assumed that immune-mediated mechanisms may disrupt the functioning of neural networks responsible for motor control, thereby contributing to the development of tic manifestations.
Thus, neuroimmune processes are considered one of the important pathogenetic factors in tic disorders in children. Further investigation of these mechanisms is essential for a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of the disorder, the identification of potential biomarkers, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating immune and neuroinflammatory responses.
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