Microglia in neurodegenerative diseases
Yu Xu1, Ming-Zhu Jin2, Ze-Yong Yang3
1Department of Anesthesiology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Disease, Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
A major feature of neurodegeneration is disruption of central nervous system homeostasis, during which microglia play diverse roles. In the central nervous system, microglia serve as the first line of immune defense and function in synapse pruning, injury repair, homeostasis maintenance, and regulation of brain development through scavenging and phagocytosis. Under pathological conditions or various stimulations, microglia proliferate, aggregate, and undergo a variety of changes in cell morphology, immunophenotype, and function. This review presents the features of microglia, especially their diversity and ability to change dynamically, and reinterprets their role as sensors for multiple stimulations and as effectors for brain aging and neurodegeneration. This review also summarizes some therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases that target microglia.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are crucial in neurodegeneration and brain aging. Understanding their dynamic roles offers new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neurodegeneration involves disruption of central nervous system homeostasis.
- Microglia are key immune cells in the central nervous system, involved in defense, repair, and development.
- Microglia exhibit dynamic changes in morphology and function under pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse roles and dynamic nature of microglia in the central nervous system.
- To re-evaluate microglia as sensors and effectors in brain aging and neurodegeneration.
- To summarize current therapeutic strategies targeting microglia for neurodegenerative diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of microglial function in neurodegeneration.
- Analysis of microglial plasticity and immunophenotype.
- Synthesis of therapeutic approaches targeting microglia.
Main Results:
- Microglia display significant diversity and dynamic adaptability.
- Microglia act as critical sensors of stimuli and effectors in brain aging.
- Microglial dysregulation is implicated in neurodegenerative processes.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are central players in neurodegeneration, exhibiting complex and adaptable functions.
- Targeting microglial responses presents a promising avenue for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
- Further research into microglial heterogeneity is essential for developing effective therapies.
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