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Microglia and macrophages in the neuro-glia-vascular unit: From identity to functions

Shuning Chen1, Jiaying Li1, Shan Meng1

  • 1Department of Critical Care Medicine of Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, and Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Neurobiology of Disease
|March 8, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Vessel-associated microglia (VAM) and perivascular macrophages (PVMs) are distinct myeloid cells crucial for brain health and disease. Understanding their unique roles in the neuro-glia-vascular unit (NGVU) offers therapeutic potential for central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Vessel-associated microglia (VAM) and perivascular macrophages (PVMs) are myeloid cells residing near cerebral vasculature.
  • These cells, though similar, exhibit distinct morphologies, molecular signatures, and anatomical locations.
  • They are integral components of the neuro-glia-vascular unit (NGVU).

Conclusions:

  • VAM and PVM heterogeneity is significant for understanding neurovascular dynamics.
  • These cells present promising therapeutic targets for a range of central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate their complex roles and therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
AngiogenesisBlood flow regulationPerivascular macrophagesPhagocytosisSingle-cell RNA sequencingVessel-associated microglia

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