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Updated: Jun 14, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancing Understanding Through Technological Innovations in Psychoneuroimmunology

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Microglial Modulation of Synaptic Maturation, Activity, and Plasticity.

Maria Joana Pinto^1,2, Davide Ragozzino^3,4, Alain Bessis¹

¹Institut de Biologie de l'École normale supérieure (IBENS), École normale supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France.

Advances in Neurobiology

|August 29, 2024

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, actively regulate neuronal and synaptic activity throughout life. These adaptable cells fine-tune both developing and adult neural circuits in diverse brain regions.

Keywords:

ATP Inflammation Neuronal development Neuronal network Synapse Synapse maturation

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Immunology
Cell Biology

Background:

Microglia are the primary immune cells residing in the central nervous system (CNS).
Beyond immune surveillance, microglia play crucial roles in maintaining CNS homeostasis under physiological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

To review experimental evidence on how microglia modulate neuronal and synaptic activity.
To highlight the role of microglia in neural development and adult brain function.

Main Methods:

Review of experimental studies investigating microglial functions.
Analysis of molecular mechanisms (soluble and membrane molecules) and cellular interactions involved in microglial regulation.

Main Results:

Microglia regulate the maturation and function of both inhibitory and excitatory synapses.
These regulatory effects are observed in various brain regions and involve direct or indirect mechanisms.
Microglial actions are context-dependent, demonstrating adaptability in modulating neural activity.

Conclusions:

Microglia are integral regulators of neuronal and synaptic activity in the CNS.
Their functions extend beyond immunity to actively shape neural circuit development and maintenance.
Microglia exhibit remarkable context-dependent plasticity in their regulatory roles within the brain.