Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 31, 2026

Characterization and Isolation of Mouse Primary Microglia by Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: February 16, 2018
Microglia in the RVLM of SHR have reduced P2Y12R and CX3CR1 expression, shorter processes, and lower cell density
E Myfanwy Cohen1, Suja Mohammed1, Mary Kavurma1
1The Heart Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales 2042, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
Abstract:
The RVLM of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) contains over-active C1 neurons, which model the pathology of essential hypertension. Hypertension involves chronic low-grade neuroinflammation. Inflammation in the brain is produced and maintained primarily by microglia. We assessed microglial gene expression (P2Y12R and CX3CR1) and morphology in the RVLM of SHR compared to normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). The gene expression of the metabotropic purinergic receptor P2Y12 and the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 was downregulated in the RVLM of SHR compared to WKY (by 37.3% and 30.9% respectively). P2Y12R and CX3CR1 are required for normal microglial function, and reduced P2Y12R expression is associated with changes in microglial activity. Histological analysis showed a 22.9% reduction in microglial cell density, along with 18.7% shorter microglial processes, a phenotypic indicator of activation, in the RVLM of SHR compared to WKY. These results indicate a subtle loss of function, or a mild state of inflammation, in the RVLM microglia of SHR.
Related Concept Videos
Coordination of Gene Expression Processes in Bacteria
Cell Specific Gene Expression
Cell Specific Gene Expression
Reducing Line Loss
With a step-up transformer at the source, the voltage is increased, thereby reducing the current in the transmission lines since power loss in...
Density
What is Gene Expression?
Gene expression is the process in which DNA directs the synthesis of functional products, that is, proteins. Cells can regulate gene expression at various stages. It allows organisms to generate different cell types and enables cells to adapt to internal and external factors.
Genetic Information Flows from DNA to RNA to Protein
A gene is a stretch of DNA that serves as the blueprint for functional RNAs and proteins. Since DNA is made up of nucleotides and proteins consist of amino...

