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Updated: Dec 7, 2025
Characterization and Isolation of Mouse Primary Microglia by Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: February 16, 2018
The Role of Microglia in Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorders
Wenguo Fan1,2, Lijia Mai2, Xiao Zhu3
1Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
Abstract:
Perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is a common phenomenon associated with anesthesia and surgery and has been frequently described in the elderly and susceptible individuals. Microglia, which are the brain's major resident immune cells, play critical roles in maintaining neuronal homeostasis and synaptic plasticity. Accumulating evidence suggests microglial dysfunction occurring after anesthesia and surgery might perturb neuronal function and induce PND. This review aims to provide an overview of the involvement of microglia in PND to date. Possible cellular and molecular mechanisms regarding the connection between microglial activation and PND are discussed.
Insights
Perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is common after surgery. This review explores how microglia, the brain's immune cells, may contribute to PND development and function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is a frequent complication following anesthesia and surgery, particularly in elderly patients.
- Microglia, the central nervous system's resident immune cells, are crucial for neuronal health and synaptic function.
- Evidence suggests that microglial dysfunction post-surgery may underlie PND.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of microglia's role in PND.
- To discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms linking microglial activation to PND.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating microglia and PND.
- Analysis of cellular and molecular pathways involved in microglial activation and neuroinflammation.
Main Results:
- Microglial activation is implicated in the pathophysiology of PND.
- Specific cellular and molecular mechanisms are proposed to connect microglial dysfunction to cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are key players in the development of PND.
- Targeting microglial pathways may offer therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating PND.
