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Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
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Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates

Published on: January 30, 2014

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The molecular determinants of microglial developmental dynamics

Liam Barry-Carroll1, Diego Gomez-Nicola2

  • 1Nutrineuro, UMR 1286 INRAE, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux INP, Bordeaux, France.

Nature Reviews. Neuroscience
|April 24, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, originate from yolk sac progenitors. This review details their development, brain entry, and factors establishing their unique identity and function.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Microglia are unique central nervous system (CNS) glial cells with extra-embryonic yolk sac origins.
  • They represent the largest population of parenchymal macrophages within the brain.
  • Microglial progenitors proliferate extensively and colonize the entire brain during development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the origins and brain entry routes of microglial progenitors.
  • To discuss molecular and non-molecular factors influencing microglial fate and function.
  • To explore mechanisms regulating microglial colonization and niche occupation.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
  • It integrates findings on developmental processes and cellular mechanisms.
  • Focuses on genetic, molecular, and environmental determinants.

Main Results:

  • Microglial progenitors originate from the yolk sac and enter the brain during development.
  • Brain colonization is regulated by progenitor proliferation, space availability, and niche occupation.
  • Specific molecular and non-molecular factors dictate microglial fate and identity.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding microglial origins and development is crucial for deciphering their roles in CNS health and disease.
  • The expansion and colonization dynamics of microglial progenitors shape the brain's immune landscape.
  • Identifying factors establishing microglial identity provides insights into their specialized functions.

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