Altered synaptic plasticity: plausible mechanisms associated with viral infections

Neurotropic viruses target the central nervous system through various mechanisms: they have the potential to modulate synaptic plasticity, causing cognitive impairments by blocking N-methyl d-aspartate receptors; they alter the Ca2+ ion-signaling pathways modulating long-term potentiation, leading to a severe inflammatory response in brain cells, increased reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation through mitochondria and peroxisomes. Inflammatory pathways have a key role in modulating the plasticity of neurons, linked to numerous neurological disorders. Advanced neuroimaging techniques facilitate the early diagnosis of impaired synaptic function in viral infections and neurodegenerative disorders. Here we discuss the understanding of the interplay between neurotropic viral infections and their effects on synaptic plasticity and diagnosis through neuroimaging techniques.