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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
Entry, dispersion and differentiation of microglia in the developing central nervous system
J Navascués1, R Calvente, J L Marín-Teva
1Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Spain. navascue@goliat.ugr.es
Abstract:
Microglial cells within the developing central nervous system (CNS) originate from mesodermic precursors of hematopoietic lineage that enter the nervous parenchyma from the meninges, ventricular space and/or blood stream. Once in the nervous parenchyma, microglial cells increase in number and disperse throughout the CNS; these cells finally differentiate to become fully ramified microglial cells. In this article we review present knowledge on these phases of microglial development and the factors that probably influence them.
Insights
Newly forming brain immune cells, or microglial cells, originate from blood precursors and migrate into the developing central nervous system (CNS). Their proliferation, dispersion, and differentiation are key to CNS development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Microglial cells are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS).
- Their development is crucial for proper brain function and homeostasis.
- Understanding microglial origins and development is essential for neurodevelopmental research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the developmental stages of microglial cells in the CNS.
- To identify the factors influencing microglial cell development.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of microglial cell ontogeny.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on microglial cell development.
- Analysis of studies on hematopoietic stem cell migration and differentiation.
- Synthesis of data on factors affecting microglial proliferation and maturation.
Main Results:
- Microglial cells originate from mesodermic hematopoietic precursors.
- These precursors enter the CNS parenchyma via meninges, ventricular spaces, or bloodstream.
- Microglial cells proliferate, disperse, and differentiate into ramified cells within the developing CNS.
Conclusions:
- Microglial development involves distinct phases: origin, migration, proliferation, dispersion, and differentiation.
- Various factors influence these developmental processes.
- Further research into these factors can elucidate mechanisms of CNS development and disease.
