Potential effects of microglia-vascular interactions during chronic systemic inflammation in the central nervous system of mice with systemic lupus erythematosus
Mariko Shindo1, Takahiro Tsuji1, Rahadian Yudo Hartantyo1
1Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
Abstract:
Microglia are brain specific macrophages and the only immune cells in the brain. Microglia sense the systemic immune status and contribute to neurological and psychiatric disorders. We previously showed that systemic immune activation induces microglial migration on vessels that regulate the blood brain barrier permeability. In this study, using Toll like receptor 7 induced systemic lupus erythematosus model mice, we found microglia migration on vessels and significant T cell infiltration in the brain. Additionally, microglia interacting with T cell expressed MHC class II molecules in some cases, suggesting the antigen presentation of microglia in systemic lupus erythematosus model mice. This research provides insights on the autoimmune antibody expression in the brain.
Insights
Systemic immune activation causes brain immune cells called microglia to migrate along blood vessels, potentially leading to T cell infiltration and antigen presentation in the brain during systemic lupus erythematosus.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Immunology
- Neurology
Background:
- Microglia are the brain's resident macrophages, sensing systemic immunity and impacting neurological disorders.
- Previous research demonstrated systemic immune activation prompts microglial migration, affecting blood-brain barrier permeability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate microglial behavior and T cell infiltration in the brain during systemic lupus erythematosus.
- To explore the potential role of microglia in antigen presentation within the central nervous system in this autoimmune model.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Toll-like receptor 7 induced systemic lupus erythematosus mouse model.
- Observed microglial migration patterns on brain vessels.
- Analyzed T cell infiltration and microglial expression of MHC class II molecules.
Main Results:
- Confirmed microglial migration on brain vessels in the systemic lupus erythematosus model.
- Observed significant T cell infiltration into the brain.
- Identified MHC class II expression on microglia interacting with T cells, suggesting antigen presentation.
Conclusions:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus induces specific microglial responses within the brain.
- Microglia may present antigens to T cells in the context of this autoimmune disease.
- Findings offer insights into autoimmune processes and antibody expression in the brain.
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