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Related Concept Videos

Glial Cells01:04

Glial Cells

Overview
Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells01:31

Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells

Glia, or neuroglia, are vital support cells that assist neurons in their functions. The term "glia" originates from the Greek word for "glue," reflecting their role in holding the nervous system together. These cells can be categorized into six types: four in the central nervous system (CNS) and two in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
The CNS glial cell includes the astrocytes, the oligodendrocytes, the microglia, and the ependymal cells.
Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells that interact...

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Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility
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Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility

Published on: April 13, 2017

Microglia: biology and pathology.

Manuel B Graeber1, Wolfgang J Streit

  • 1Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Neurosciences Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. manuel@graeber.net

Acta Neuropathologica
|December 17, 2009
PubMed
Summary

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, have significantly advanced our understanding of neurological diseases over the past 20 years. Ongoing research explores their complex roles in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

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Last Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility
07:54

Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility

Published on: April 13, 2017

Immunofluorescence Staining Using IBA1 and TMEM119 for Microglial Density, Morphology and Peripheral Myeloid Cell Infiltration Analysis in Mouse Brain
10:40

Immunofluorescence Staining Using IBA1 and TMEM119 for Microglial Density, Morphology and Peripheral Myeloid Cell Infiltration Analysis in Mouse Brain

Published on: October 27, 2019

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Microglia biology and function in disease have seen exponential growth in knowledge over the last two decades.
  • Over 10,000 articles published highlight significant advancements since the introduction of the microglia "immune network" concept.
  • New clinical research areas, including microglia's role in pain and brain tumors, have emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the latest developments in microglia research.
  • To analyze emerging controversies and clarify the interpretation of "(micro)glial inflammation".
  • To explore future research directions, particularly concerning microglia's role in synaptic plasticity.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and critical analysis of published research on microglia.
  • Examination of studies investigating microglia in neurodegenerative diseases, pain, and brain tumors.
  • Assessment of research on microglia's involvement in synaptic plasticity.

Main Results:

  • Significant progress in understanding microglia's multifaceted roles in various neurological conditions.
  • Emergence of controversies regarding microglia's active vs. reactive status in neurodegeneration and their potential victimhood.
  • The concept of "(micro)glial inflammation" remains open to interpretation, often perceived negatively.

Conclusions:

  • Microglia research has rapidly advanced, opening new clinical avenues but also introducing complex questions.
  • Further investigation is needed to resolve controversies surrounding microglia's role in neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Research into microglia's function in synaptic plasticity holds promise for understanding their fundamental role in brain function, potentially identifying them as "brain electricians".