Microglia: proliferation and activation driven by the P2X7 receptor
Mastura Monif1, Geoffrey Burnstock, David A Williams
1Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Microglial activation is associated with the pathogenesis and progression of conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinsons' disease, prion disease, multiple sclerosis, and ischemic and traumatic brain injury. The molecular mechanism of microglial activation is largely unknown. The expression of the purinergic, P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), is known to be enhanced in many brain pathologies where presence of activated microglia is a concurrent feature. This review focuses on the links between P2X7R expression and microglial activation and proliferation. The P2X7R is identified as a key player in the process of microgliosis, where by driving microglial activation, it can potentially lead to a deleterious cycle of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.
Insights
The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) drives microglial activation, a key process in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration seen in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Microglial activation is implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
- The precise molecular mechanisms driving microglial activation remain largely unelucidated.
- Elevated purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) expression is observed in brain pathologies featuring activated microglia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between P2X7R expression and microglial activation.
- To explore the role of P2X7R in microgliosis and its contribution to neuroinflammation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies investigating P2X7R and microglial activation.
- Analysis of the role of P2X7R in cellular processes like activation and proliferation.
Main Results:
- P2X7R expression is upregulated in conditions associated with microglial activation.
- P2X7R signaling is identified as a critical factor in initiating and sustaining microglial activation.
Conclusions:
- The purinergic P2X7 receptor is a key mediator of microgliosis.
- Targeting P2X7R may offer a therapeutic strategy to mitigate neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in various brain disorders.
