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Analysis of Microglia and Monocyte-derived Macrophages from the Central Nervous System by Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 22, 2017
Brain macrophages in vascular health and dysfunction
Mitchell Bijnen1, Sucheta Sridhar2, Annika Keller2
1Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Diverse macrophage populations inhabit the rodent and human central nervous system (CNS), including microglia in the parenchyma and border-associated macrophages (BAMs) in the meninges, choroid plexus, and perivascular spaces. These innate immune phagocytes are essential in brain development and maintaining homeostasis, but they also play diverse roles in neurological diseases. In this review, we highlight the emerging roles of CNS macrophages in regulating vascular function in health and disease. We discuss that, in addition to microglia, BAMs, including perivascular macrophages, play roles in supporting vascular integrity and maintaining blood flow. We highlight recent advancements in understanding how these macrophages are implicated in protecting against vascular dysfunction and modulating the progression of cerebrovascular diseases, as seen in vessel-associated neurodegeneration.
Insights
Central nervous system (CNS) macrophages, including microglia and border-associated macrophages (BAMs), are crucial for brain vascular health. These immune cells protect against vascular dysfunction and influence cerebrovascular disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Vascular Biology
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Research
Background:
- Diverse macrophage populations, including microglia and border-associated macrophages (BAMs), reside in the CNS.
- These cells are vital for brain development, homeostasis, and neurological disease pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emerging roles of CNS macrophages in regulating vascular function.
- To discuss the involvement of these macrophages in cerebrovascular health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in CNS macrophage research.
- Focus on studies investigating macrophage roles in vascular integrity and blood flow.
Main Results:
- CNS macrophages, beyond microglia, including BAMs and perivascular macrophages, support vascular integrity and blood flow.
- Macrophages are implicated in protecting against vascular dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- CNS macrophages play significant roles in maintaining vascular function in both health and disease.
- Understanding these roles is key to modulating cerebrovascular disease progression.
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