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Microglial polarization in Alzheimer's disease: Mechanisms, implications, and therapeutic opportunities

Xinmao Yang1, Jie Wang1, Xiaotao Jia2

  • 1Department of Basic Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China.

Journal of Alzheimer'S Disease : JAD
|February 2, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Microglia immune cells in Alzheimer's disease (AD) can shift between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory states. Understanding microglial polarization is key to addressing neuroinflammation and cognitive decline in AD.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves amyloid-β plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuroinflammation.
  • Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are central to AD pathogenesis.
  • Microglial dysfunction contributes to neuronal damage and cognitive decline.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms of microglial polarization in Alzheimer's disease.
  • To discuss the implications of microglial polarization in AD progression.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on microglial polarization in AD.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms governing microglial phenotype.
  • Discussion of the role of M1 and M2 microglial states in AD.

Main Results:

  • Microglial polarization involves a shift between pro-inflammatory (M1) and anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes.
  • Dysregulated M1 polarization exacerbates neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction in AD.
  • Aberrant microglial activity contributes to neuronal loss and cognitive impairment.

Conclusions:

  • Microglial polarization is a critical factor in Alzheimer's disease progression.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the molecular pathways of microglial polarization in AD.
  • Targeting microglial polarization may offer therapeutic strategies for AD.
Keywords:
Alzheimer's diseaseimplicationsmicroglial polarizationneuroinflammation mechanisms

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