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Published on: April 13, 2017
Microglia at the Centre of Brain Research: Accomplishments and Challenges for the Future
Nuno L Soares1, Helena L A Vieira2,3,4
1Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC) - Faculdade de Ciências Médicas/NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria 130, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal. nuno.soares@nms.unl.pt.
Abstract:
Microglia are the immune guardians of the central nervous system (CNS), with critical functions in development, maintenance of homeostatic tissue balance, injury and repair. For a long time considered a forgotten 'third element' with basic phagocytic functions, a recent surge in interest, accompanied by technological progress, has demonstrated that these distinct myeloid cells have a wide-ranging importance for brain function. This review reports microglial origins, development, and function in the healthy brain. Moreover, it also targets microglia dysfunction and how it contributes to the progression of several neurological disorders, focusing on particular molecular mechanisms and whether these may present themselves as opportunities for novel, microglia-targeted therapeutic approaches, an ever-enticing prospect. Finally, as it has been recently celebrated 100 years of microglia research, the review highlights key landmarks from the past century and looked into the future. Many challenging problems have arisen, thus it points out some of the most pressing questions and experimental challenges for the ensuing century.
Insights
Microglia, the central nervous system's immune cells, are vital for brain health and function. Their dysfunction contributes to neurological disorders, offering potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglia are the primary immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS).
- Historically underestimated, recent advancements highlight their crucial roles in brain development, homeostasis, and repair.
- Their importance extends to overall brain function, moving beyond basic phagocytic capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the origins, development, and functions of microglia in a healthy brain.
- To explore the contribution of microglial dysfunction to neurological disorder progression.
- To identify molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research on microglia.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying microglial function and dysfunction.
- Historical overview of microglia research and future outlook.
Main Results:
- Microglia play multifaceted roles in the healthy CNS, including development and tissue maintenance.
- Microglial dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases.
- Specific molecular pathways offer potential targets for novel microglia-based therapies.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are essential for CNS health, and their dysregulation drives neurological disease.
- Targeting microglia presents promising therapeutic avenues for treating neurological disorders.
- Future research should address key challenges and unanswered questions in microglia biology.
