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Related Experiment Video

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Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates

Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates

Published on: January 30, 2014

Microglial phenotype and adaptation.

B J L Eggen¹, D Raj, U-K Hanisch

¹Department of Neuroscience, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.

Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology : the Official Journal of the Society on Neuroimmune Pharmacology

|July 25, 2013

Summary

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are not just inflammatory but have diverse roles in brain health and disease. Understanding their varied functions is key to targeting neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

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Last Updated: May 9, 2026

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Published on: March 9, 2018

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Immunology
Cell Biology

Background:

Microglia are central nervous system immune cells that shift from a resting to a pro-inflammatory state.
Traditionally viewed as neurotoxic in neurodegeneration, resting microglia perform essential house-keeping functions.
Microglial activity encompasses a spectrum of responses beyond simple inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

To review microglia functions, their determinants, and phenotypic variations.
To explore microglia adaptation to environmental cues and aging.
To identify therapeutic targets for controlling neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

Main Methods:

Literature review of microglia research.
Analysis of microglia's role in homeostasis and disease.
Examination of microglia activation mechanisms.

Main Results:

Microglia exhibit diverse reactive profiles, not solely pro-inflammatory.
Activated microglia support inflammation, tissue remodeling, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis.
Microglia functions are influenced by the local neural environment and prior experience.

Conclusions:

Microglia are dynamic cells with multifaceted roles in the central nervous system.
Understanding the spectrum of microglia activation is crucial for therapeutic strategies.
Targeting microglia activation mechanisms offers potential for treating neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.