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Updated: May 29, 2026
Analysis of Microglia and Monocyte-derived Macrophages from the Central Nervous System by Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 22, 2017
Heterogeneity of CNS myeloid cells and their roles in neurodegeneration
Marco Prinz1, Josef Priller, Sangram S Sisodia
1Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. marco.prinz@uniklinik-freiburg.de
Abstract:
The diseased brain hosts a heterogeneous population of myeloid cells, including parenchymal microglia, perivascular cells, meningeal macrophages and blood-borne monocytes. To date, the different types of brain myeloid cells have been discriminated solely on the basis of their localization, morphology and surface epitope expression. However, recent data suggest that resident microglia may be functionally distinct from bone marrow- or blood-derived phagocytes, which invade the CNS under pathological conditions. During the last few years, research on brain myeloid cells has been markedly changed by the advent of new tools in imaging, genetics and immunology. These methodologies have yielded unexpected results, which challenge the traditional view of brain macrophages. On the basis of these new studies, we differentiate brain myeloid subtypes with regard to their origin, function and fate in the brain and illustrate the divergent features of these cells during neurodegeneration.
Insights
The diseased brain contains diverse myeloid cells. New research reveals distinct origins, functions, and behaviors of these brain myeloid cell subtypes, especially during neurodegeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The brain harbors diverse myeloid cells, including microglia, perivascular cells, meningeal macrophages, and monocytes.
- Traditionally, brain myeloid cell types are distinguished by location, morphology, and surface markers.
- Emerging evidence suggests functional differences between resident microglia and infiltrating myeloid cells in pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate brain myeloid subtypes based on their origin, function, and fate.
- To illustrate the distinct features of these myeloid cell subtypes during neurodegeneration.
Main Methods:
- Utilized advanced imaging techniques.
- Employed genetic tools for cell tracing and manipulation.
- Applied immunological assays to characterize cell populations.
Main Results:
- New methodologies challenge traditional classifications of brain macrophages.
- Identified distinct origins for various brain myeloid cell populations.
- Demonstrated divergent cellular behaviors and functions in the context of neurodegeneration.
Conclusions:
- Brain myeloid cell populations are more heterogeneous than previously thought.
- Origin, function, and fate vary significantly among brain myeloid subtypes.
- Understanding these distinctions is crucial for comprehending neurodegenerative processes.
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