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Published on: July 26, 2024
Microglia: Lifelong patrolling immune cells of the brain
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Center for Brain Immunology and Glia (BIG), University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Abstract:
Microglial cells are the predominant parenchymal immune cell of the brain. Recent evidence suggests that like peripheral immune cells, microglia patrol the brain in health and disease. Reviewing these data, we first examine the evidence that microglia invade the brain mesenchyme early in embryonic development, establish residence therein, proliferate and subsequently maintain their numbers throughout life. We, then, summarize established and novel evidence for microglial process surveillance in the healthy and injured brain. Finally, we discuss emerging evidence for microglial cell body dynamics that challenge existing assumptions of their sessile nature. We conclude that microglia are long-lived immune cells that patrol the brain through both cell body and process movements. This recognition has significant implications for neuroimmune interactions throughout the animal lifespan.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, actively patrol the central nervous system throughout life. New evidence shows these long-lived cells move their bodies and processes, impacting brain health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglial cells are the primary immune cells within the brain parenchyma.
- Emerging research indicates microglia exhibit surveillance behaviors similar to peripheral immune cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on microglial cell development, surveillance, and dynamics in the brain.
- To challenge the traditional view of microglia as sessile cells.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature on microglial cell biology and behavior.
- Analysis of data supporting microglial invasion, proliferation, and surveillance.
Main Results:
- Microglia colonize the brain during embryonic development and self-maintain throughout life.
- Evidence supports both microglial process and cell body motility for brain surveillance.
- Microglial dynamics challenge assumptions of their immobility.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are dynamic, long-lived immune cells capable of patrolling the brain via cell body and process movements.
- Understanding microglial motility is crucial for neuroimmune interactions across the lifespan.
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