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Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
The possible factors affecting microglial activation in cases of obesity with cognitive dysfunction
Titikorn Chunchai1,2, Nipon Chattipakorn1,2, Siriporn C Chattipakorn3,4
1Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
Abstract:
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in many countries around the world. Several studies have reported that obesity can lead to the development of cognitive decline. There is increasing evidence to demonstrate that microglia play a crucial role in cognitive decline in cases of obesity, Alzheimer's disease and also in the aging process. Although there have been several studies into microglia over the past decades, the mechanistic link between microglia and cognitive decline in obese models is still not fully understood. In this review, the current available evidence from both in vitro and in vivo investigations regarding the association between the alteration in microglial activity in different obese models with respect to cognition are included. The metabolite profiles from obesity, adiposity, dietary and hormone affected microglial activation and its function in the brain are comprehensively summarized. In addition, the possible roles of microglial activation in relation to cognitive dysfunction are also presented and discussed. To ensure a balanced perspective controversial reports regarding these issues are included and discussed.
Insights
Obesity is linked to cognitive decline, with microglia playing a key role. This review explores how obesity affects microglial function and brain health, seeking to clarify the underlying mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Metabolism
Background:
- Obesity is a global epidemic with growing evidence linking it to cognitive decline.
- Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are increasingly implicated in obesity-related cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and aging.
- The precise mechanisms connecting obesity-induced microglial changes to cognitive dysfunction remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on the association between altered microglial activity and cognitive function in obese models.
- To summarize metabolite profiles, dietary, and hormonal influences on microglial activation in obesity.
- To discuss the potential roles of microglial activation in cognitive dysfunction, including controversial findings.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
- Analysis of metabolite profiles related to obesity, adiposity, diet, and hormones.
- Examination of microglial activation and function in various obese models.
Main Results:
- Obesity significantly alters microglial activation and function.
- Metabolite profiles, diet, and hormones are key factors influencing these changes.
- Evidence suggests a strong link between obesity-induced microglial alterations and cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Microglial dysfunction is a critical factor in obesity-related cognitive decline.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay between obesity, microglia, and cognition.
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