Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility
Published on: April 13, 2017
The influence of environment and origin on brain resident macrophages and implications for therapy
Mariko L Bennett1, F Chris Bennett2
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA. bennettm2@email.chop.edu.
Abstract:
Microglia are the tissue-resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord. They are critical players in the development, normal function, and decline of the CNS. Unlike traditional monocyte-derived macrophages, microglia originate from primitive hematopoiesis in the embryonic yolk sac and self-renew throughout life. Microglia also have a unique genetic signature among tissue resident macrophages. Recent studies identify the contributions of both brain environment and developmental history to the transcriptomic identity of microglia. Here we review this emerging literature and discuss the potential implications of origin on microglial function, with particular focus on existing and future therapies using bone-marrow- or stem-cell-derived cells for the treatment of neurological diseases.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, originate uniquely from the embryonic yolk sac. Their distinct origin influences their function and potential use in treating neurological diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Microglia are the primary immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord.
- They play crucial roles in CNS development, function, and disease.
- Unlike other macrophages, microglia originate from embryonic yolk sac hematopoiesis and self-renew, possessing a unique genetic profile.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emerging literature on microglial origin and its impact on their function.
- To discuss the implications of microglial origin for cell-based therapies in neurological diseases.
- To highlight the unique genetic signature and developmental history of microglia.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature.
- Analysis of transcriptomic data related to microglia.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies involving bone-marrow- or stem-cell-derived cells.
Main Results:
- Microglia possess a unique genetic signature distinct from monocyte-derived macrophages.
- Both the brain environment and developmental history shape microglial transcriptomic identity.
- Understanding microglial origin is key to their functional roles.
Conclusions:
- The unique embryonic origin of microglia profoundly influences their function in the CNS.
- Therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases may benefit from considering microglial origin.
- Further research into stem-cell-derived therapies requires an understanding of microglial developmental pathways.
