How SARS-CoV-2, Hantaviruses, Zika virus, and Other Pathogens Hijack Extracellular Vesicles to Invade the Brain and Drive Neuroinflammation
Over recent years, research has revealed a more indirect and sophisticated way that viruses influence the nervous system. Rather than relying solely on direct infection, multiple viruses exploit extracellular vesicles (EVs)—small, membrane-bound particles naturally used for cell-to-cell communication—to spread viral material, evade immune defenses, and trigger inflammation. This EV-mediated mechanism provides a compelling explanation for neurological symptoms seen during acute infections and in post-viral syndromes such as long COVID. Extracellular Vesicles: A Double-Edged Sword Extracellular vesicles are essential for normal biological communication. Cells use them to transport proteins, lipids, and RNA between one another. However, many pathogens—including SARS-CoV-2 and Zika virus—co-opt this system. Evidence shows that infected cells release EVs containing viral RNA, proteins, and sometimes intact viral particles. These vesicles function as stealth carriers: They shield viral...