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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
Modulating the polarization phenotype of microglia - A valuable strategy for central nervous system diseases
Yu Long1, Xiao-Qiu Li1, Jie Deng1
1State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
Abstract:
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases have become one of the leading causes of death in the global population. The pathogenesis of CNS diseases is complicated, so it is important to find the patterns of the disease to improve the treatment strategy. Microglia are considered to be a double-edged sword, playing both harmful and beneficial roles in CNS diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the progression of the disease and the changes in the polar phenotype of microglia to provide guidance in the treatment of CNS diseases. Microglia activation may evolve into different phenotypes: M1 and M2 types. We focused on the roles that M1 and M2 microglia play in regulating intercellular dialogues, pathological reactions and specific diseases in CNS diseases. Importantly, we summarized the strategies used to modulate the polarization phenotype of microglia, including traditional pharmacological modulation, biological therapies, and physical strategies. This review will contribute to the development of potential strategies to modulate microglia polarization phenotypes and provide new alternative therapies for CNS diseases.
Insights
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are a major global health concern. Understanding microglia polarization (M1/M2) and therapeutic modulation strategies is key to developing new treatments for CNS disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are a leading cause of global mortality.
- The complex pathogenesis necessitates improved treatment strategies.
- Microglia, immune cells in the CNS, exhibit dual roles (harmful/beneficial) in disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the roles of M1 and M2 microglia phenotypes in CNS diseases.
- To explore microglia's involvement in intercellular communication and pathological responses.
- To review current strategies for modulating microglia polarization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on microglia polarization in CNS diseases.
- Analysis of M1 and M2 microglia functions.
- Compilation of therapeutic modulation approaches.
Main Results:
- Microglia polarization into M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory) phenotypes influences CNS disease outcomes.
- M1/M2 phenotypes differentially regulate intercellular dialogues and pathological reactions.
- Various strategies exist to modulate microglia polarization.
Conclusions:
- Understanding microglia polarization is crucial for CNS disease treatment.
- Modulating microglia phenotypes offers potential therapeutic avenues.
- This review provides insights into novel treatment strategies for CNS diseases.
