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Updated: May 15, 2026
Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
Microglia: actively surveying and shaping neuronal circuit structure and function
Hiroaki Wake1, Andrew J Moorhouse, Akiko Miyamoto
1Nervous System Development and Plasticity Section, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Abstract:
The traditional role of microglia has been in brain infection and disease, phagocytosing debris and secreting factors to modify disease progression. Recent evidence extends their role to healthy brain homeostasis, including the regulation of cell death, synapse elimination, neurogenesis, and neuronal surveillance. These actions contribute to the maturation and plasticity of neural circuits that ultimately shape behavior. Here we review microglial contributions to the development, plasticity, and maintenance of neural circuits with a focus on interactions with synapses. We introduce this topic by reviewing recent studies on the migration and proliferation of microglia within the brain, and conclude with the proposal that microglia dysfunction may adversely affect brain function, and thereby contribute to the development of psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Insights
Microglia, immune cells of the brain, are crucial for healthy brain function and neural circuit development. Their dysfunction is linked to neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Traditionally, microglia were known for roles in brain infection and disease.
- Emerging evidence highlights their critical functions in maintaining healthy brain homeostasis.
- These functions include regulating cell death, synapse elimination, neurogenesis, and neuronal surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of microglia in neural circuit development, plasticity, and maintenance.
- To focus on the intricate interactions between microglia and synapses.
- To explore the implications of microglial dysfunction in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on microglial biology and function.
- Analysis of studies investigating microglial migration and proliferation in the brain.
- Synthesis of evidence linking microglial activities to neural circuit maturation and behavior.
Main Results:
- Microglia actively participate in synapse elimination and neuronal surveillance.
- Microglial actions are essential for the maturation and plasticity of neural circuits.
- Recent studies show microglia migration and proliferation are key to their function.
Conclusions:
- Microglia play a vital role in the development, plasticity, and maintenance of neural circuits.
- Dysfunctional microglia are implicated in the pathogenesis of psychiatric and neurological disorders.
- Understanding microglial roles offers potential therapeutic targets for brain diseases.
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