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Updated: Oct 11, 2025
Author Spotlight: Using Zebrafish to Explore Microglia Migration During Brain Development
Published on: May 17, 2024
The origin and repopulation of microglia
Lijuan Zhang1, Yue Cao1, Xin Zhang1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Institute for Translational Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Microglia are important immune cells in the central nervous system. There is growing interest in the study of microglia due to their implication in neurodevelopment, acute injury, and neuropsychiatric disorders. They undergo birth, death, and regeneration during the lifetime. Although data on the ontogeny of microglia have been studied for decades, the birth and repopulation of microglia remain legendary and mysterious. In this review, we discuss recent studies that provide new insights into the origin and regeneration of microglia. Modulating the development of microglia may offer new therapeutic opportunities for preventing deleterious effects of inflammation and controlling excessive inflammation in brain diseases.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are crucial for development and disease. Recent research illuminates their mysterious birth and regeneration, offering potential new therapies for brain disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglia are key immune cells within the central nervous system.
- Their roles in neurodevelopment, injury, and neuropsychiatric disorders are increasingly recognized.
- Microglia exhibit dynamic life cycles including birth, death, and regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the origin and regeneration of microglia.
- To explore the enigmatic processes of microglial birth and repopulation.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential of modulating microglial development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific studies.
- Synthesis of current understanding regarding microglial ontogeny and dynamics.
- Analysis of emerging insights into microglial regeneration.
Main Results:
- Recent studies offer new perspectives on microglial origin and regeneration.
- The processes of microglial birth and repopulation are complex and not fully understood.
- Modulating microglial development presents potential therapeutic avenues.
Conclusions:
- Understanding microglial regeneration is critical for advancing neuroscience.
- Targeting microglial development may offer novel strategies for treating brain diseases.
- Further research into microglial dynamics can unlock new therapeutic opportunities for neuroinflammation.
