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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
Characterization and Isolation of Mouse Primary Microglia by Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: February 16, 2018
Protective effects of microglia in multiple sclerosis
Isabella Napoli1, Harald Neumann
1Neural Regeneration, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
Abstract:
The role of microglia in demyelinating neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is still controversial. Although microglial cells are known as the professional phagocytes and executer of innate immunity in the central nervous system (CNS), it is believed that microglia are rather neurotoxic in these diseases. However, there is recent evidence indicating that microglia could also exert a neuroprotective function in MS and EAE. First evidence for the protective effect of immune cells in CNS diseases emerged from studies in invertebrates. In the medicinal leech, the process of regeneration begins with rapid activation and accumulation of phagocytic glial cells at the lesion site followed by phagocytosis of damaged tissue by these cells which promoted robust neural regeneration. In vertebrates, several lines of evidence demonstrate that microglia are also involved in neuroprotection by the secretion of soluble mediators that trigger neural repair and usually contribute to the creation of an environment conductive for regeneration. The efficient removal of apoptotic cells and clearance of debris at the lesion site and the recruitment of stem cell populations as well as the induction of neurogenesis are directly correlated. These findings suggest that microglia play a major role in creating a microenvironment for repair and regenerative processes in demyelinating neuroinflammatory diseases.
Insights
Microglia, immune cells in the central nervous system, may protect against demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis. Evidence suggests they aid neural repair and regeneration, challenging previous neurotoxic views.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- The role of microglia in demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is debated.
- While known for immune functions, microglia were often considered neurotoxic in these conditions.
- Emerging evidence suggests microglia may also possess neuroprotective capabilities in MS and EAE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the dual role of microglia in demyelinating neuroinflammatory diseases.
- To investigate the potential neuroprotective functions of microglia beyond their immune roles.
- To synthesize evidence for microglia's contribution to neural repair and regeneration.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on microglia in MS and EAE.
- Analysis of studies on glial cell roles in invertebrate regeneration (e.g., medicinal leech).
- Examination of evidence for microglial involvement in neuroprotection and neural repair mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Studies in invertebrates show phagocytic glial cells promote neural regeneration.
- Vertebrate microglia secrete mediators that trigger neural repair.
- Microglia contribute to creating a regenerative environment by clearing debris and recruiting stem cells.
Conclusions:
- Microglia play a significant role in fostering a microenvironment conducive to repair and regeneration in demyelinating neuroinflammatory diseases.
- The neuroprotective functions of microglia in conditions like MS warrant further investigation.
- Understanding microglia's complex role is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction
01:04Glial Cells