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Published on: April 13, 2017
From bone marrow to microglia: barriers and avenues
Nathalie Davoust1, Carine Vuaillat, Geraldine Androdias
1INSERM U851, IFR Biosciences, University of Lyon, 69007 Lyon, France.
Trends in Immunology
|April 9, 2008
Summary
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are continuously replenished by bone marrow cells, especially during neurological disease. This study re-evaluates microglial origins and therapeutic potential in the inflamed central nervous system (CNS).
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cellular Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Microglia are unique macrophages residing in the brain.
- Their role in central nervous system (CNS) disorders is recognized, but their renewal process remains controversial.
- Previous studies suggested microglia are replenished by bone marrow-derived cells, a process accelerated in neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the origins of microglia in the inflamed CNS.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies based on adult microglial lineage.
Main Methods:
- Review and re-evaluation of existing studies on microglial turnover.
- Analysis of bone marrow chimera studies.
- Consideration of recent work questioning irradiation/reconstitution experiments.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests microglia are continuously replenished by bone marrow-derived cells.
- Microglial turnover is significantly accelerated under various neurological conditions.
- Concerns exist regarding the interpretation of data from irradiation/reconstitution experiments.
Conclusions:
- A re-evaluation of microglial origins in the inflamed CNS is necessary.
- The demonstration of an adult microglial lineage from bone marrow to brain offers therapeutic perspectives.
- Understanding microglial renewal is crucial for developing treatments for CNS disorders.
