Stroke is a leading cause of death in developed countries. However, current therapeutic strategies for stroke have been largely unsuccessful. One possible explanation is that research and pharmacological management have focused on very early events in brain ischemia. New research has shown that brain ischemia and trauma elicit strong inflammatory reactions driven by both external and brain cells. The recognition of inflammation as a fundamental response to brain ischemia provides novel opportunities for new anti-inflammatory therapies. For the first time, an international body of researchers presents the latest findings about the cellular and humoral aspects of immune and inflammatory reactions in the brain. The work may have an impact on the treatment of neuroinjuries and ancillary brain diseases, and increase the understanding of the roles infections and immune reactions play in the brain milieu.
