The Mechanism at Work (IMAGE) Université de Genève Caption Cytotoxic T lymphocytes ("T cells") of the immune system attack the neuron by secreting a molecule called interferon gamma. IFN-gamma is sensed by the adjacent neuron through the corresponding receptor and as a result of that, the signaling protein STAT1 is activated in this neuron. This leads to neuronal secretion of the molecule CCL2 which activates and attracts so-called professional phagocytes ("eating cells") in the vicinity. Recruited phagocytes subsequently damage neurons by engulfing their connection ("synapses"). Credit Doron Merkler / UNIGE Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.