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Updated: May 1, 2026
Obtaining Human Microglia from Adult Human Brain Tissue
Published on: August 30, 2020
Microglia and brain macrophages in the molecular age: from origin to neuropsychiatric disease
11] Institute of Neuropathology, University of Freiburg, Breisacherstraße 64, 79106 Freiburg, Germany. [2] BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Mononuclear phagocytic cells in the CNS used to be defined according to their anatomical location and surface marker expression. Recently, this concept has been challenged by the results of developmental and gene expression profiling studies that have used novel molecular biological tools to unravel the origin of microglia and to define their role as specialized tissue macrophages with long lifespans. Here, we describe how these results have redefined microglia and helped us to understand how different myeloid cell populations operate in the CNS based on their cell-specific gene expression signatures, distinct ontogeny and differential functions. Moreover, we describe the vulnerability of microglia to dysfunction and propose that myelomonocytic cells might be used in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders that are characterized by primary or secondary 'microgliopathy'.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's specialized macrophages, are redefined by new molecular studies. Understanding their unique roles and vulnerabilities may lead to new treatments for neurological disorders like microgliopathy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
- Developmental Neuroscience
Background:
- Traditionally, central nervous system (CNS) mononuclear phagocytes were classified by location and surface markers.
- Recent advances in molecular biology challenge this traditional view of microglia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To redefine microglia based on developmental and gene expression profiling.
- To elucidate the distinct roles of various myeloid cell populations within the CNS.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of myelomonocytic cells in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Main Methods:
- Utilized novel molecular biological tools for gene expression profiling.
- Analyzed developmental studies to understand cell ontogeny.
- Investigated cell-specific gene expression signatures.
Main Results:
- Microglia are identified as specialized tissue macrophages with long lifespans.
- Distinct myeloid cell populations in the CNS operate based on unique gene expression signatures, ontogeny, and functions.
- Microglia exhibit vulnerability to dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- New molecular insights have redefined microglia and their CNS functions.
- Understanding microglia's role is crucial for comprehending CNS myeloid cell dynamics.
- Myelomonocytic cell-based therapies are proposed for microgliopathies, including neurological and psychiatric disorders.
