Bornavirus immunopathogenesis in rodents: models for human neurological diseases.

Although the question of human BDV infection remains to be resolved, burgeoning interest in this unique pathogen has provided tools for exploring the pharmacology and neurochemistry of neuropsychiatric disorders potentially linked to BDV infection. Two animal models have been established based on BDV infection of adult or neonatal Lewis rats. Analysis of these models is already yielding insights into mechanisms by which neurotropic agents and/or immune factors may impact developing or mature CNS circuitry to effect complex disturbances in movement and behavior.