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Updated: May 1, 2026
Culturing Microglia from the Neonatal and Adult Central Nervous System
Published on: August 9, 2013
Cell culturing of human and murine microglia cell lines
1Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
Abstract:
Despite the fact that microglia cells were first described almost a century ago, microglia-derived immortalized cell lines have only been established in the last two decades. One should be aware of their limitations but also of their advantages. Cell lines offer a potentially powerful tool to investigate some functional aspects of microglia. Cell culturing of human and murine microglia cell lines will be described in this chapter. It includes a presentation of equipment needed, cell culture medium and supplements, cell culture monitoring, and a protocol describing the steps for subculturing of microglia cell lines.
Insights
Microglia cell lines, established in the last two decades, offer a powerful tool for studying microglia functions. This chapter details culturing protocols for human and murine microglia cell lines.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, were first identified nearly a century ago.
- The development of immortalized microglia cell lines has occurred within the last twenty years.
- These cell lines present both limitations and significant advantages for research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the cell culturing of human and murine microglia cell lines.
- To provide a comprehensive guide for researchers utilizing these cell models.
- To highlight the utility of microglia cell lines in functional investigations.
Main Methods:
- Detailed presentation of necessary equipment for cell culture.
- Specification of cell culture media and essential supplements.
- Step-by-step protocol for the subculturing of microglia cell lines.
Main Results:
- Established protocols for culturing both human and murine microglia cell lines.
- Guidance on cell culture monitoring and maintenance.
- Information on the advantages and limitations of using microglia cell lines.
Conclusions:
- Microglia cell lines are valuable tools for exploring microglia biology and function.
- Understanding cell line characteristics is crucial for accurate experimental design.
- This chapter provides practical protocols for effective microglia cell line cultivation.
