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Microglial contribution to synaptic uptake in the prefrontal cortex in schizophrenia

M Tzioras1,2, A J Stevenson1,2, D Boche3

  • 1UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.

Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology
|September 6, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Microglia in schizophrenia brains do not engulf more synaptic material than in control brains. Furthermore, the overall level of microgliosis, which is the increase in microglia, is similar between schizophrenia and control brains.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Psychiatry
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Schizophrenia is a complex neurological disorder.
  • Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system.
  • Synaptic pruning is a critical process in brain development and function.

Discussion:

  • This study investigated microglial activity in post-mortem brain tissue from individuals with schizophrenia.
  • Researchers examined the engulfment of synaptic material by microglia.
  • Microgliosis, an increase in microglial numbers, was also assessed.

Key Insights:

  • Microglia in schizophrenia brains engulf synaptic material at rates comparable to age-matched controls.
  • There are no significant differences in the levels of microgliosis between schizophrenia and control brains.
  • These findings challenge the hypothesis of aberrant microglial phagocytosis in schizophrenia.

Outlook:

  • Further research is needed to understand the precise role of microglia in schizophrenia pathogenesis.
  • Investigating other microglial functions beyond phagocytosis may yield new insights.
  • Exploring potential therapeutic targets related to microglial function in schizophrenia is warranted.

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