The neuroinvasiveness, neurotropism, and neurovirulence of SARS-CoV-2

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is as-sociated with a diverse spectrum of neurological complications during the acute and postacute stages. The pathogenesis of these complications is complex and dependent on many factors. For accurate and consistent interpretation of exper-imental data in this fast-growing field of research, it is essential to use terminol-ogy consistently. In this article, we outline the distinctions between neuroinvasiveness, neurotropism, and neurovirulence. Additionally, we discuss current knowledge of these distinct features underlying the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2-associated neurological complications. Lastly, we briefly discuss the advantages and limitations of different experimental models, and how these approaches can further be leveraged to advance the field.

Automated summary

This article provides an overview of neurological complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and discusses their pathogenesis. It outlines the distinctions between neuroinvasiveness, neurotropism, and neurovirulence, and explores the advantages and limitations of different experimental models in advancing the field.