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Ontogeny and function of microglia and nerve-associated macrophages

Marina Mayer1, Eliana Franco Taveras1, Elvira Mass1

  • 1Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.

Advances in Immunology
|October 5, 2025
PubMed

Insights

This chapter details macrophage development, crucial immune cells originating from early hematopoietic waves. Understanding their roles in the nervous system, including microglia and border-associated macrophages, offers insights into neurodevelopment and disease.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Macrophages are vital immune cells with roles throughout life, originating during embryogenesis.
  • These cells persist as tissue-resident populations, essential for tissue homeostasis and repair.
  • Their development and specialized functions within the nervous system are critical for health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore macrophage development and their specific roles within the central nervous system (CNS), peripheral nervous system (PNS), and enteric nervous system (ENS).
  • To elucidate the origins and differentiation pathways of specialized macrophage populations like microglia and border-associated macrophages (BAMs).
  • To discuss the impact of developmental disruptions on neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on macrophage development and neurobiology.
  • Analysis of differentiation pathways from hematopoietic precursors to specialized neural macrophages.
  • Discussion of factors influencing macrophage development and their consequences.

Main Results:

  • Macrophages arise from early hematopoietic waves and differentiate into specialized neural populations.
  • Microglia, BAMs, and nerve-associated macrophages play key roles in nervous system development, maintenance, and repair.
  • Disruptions in macrophage development due to environmental or maternal factors can negatively impact neurodevelopment and increase susceptibility to neurodegeneration.

Conclusions:

  • Macrophage development is fundamental to nervous system integrity and function.
  • Understanding these processes provides insights into neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
  • Targeting macrophage development may offer therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases.
Keywords:
Border-associated macrophagesENSMacrophagesMicrogliaNeurodevelopmentPNS

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