Microglia-Neuron Crosstalk: An Intimate Molecular Conversation in Neurodegeneration

Microglia are a unique cell population in the central nervous system (CNS) and serve as its resident immune cells. They have long been recognized for their critical contributions to CNS development and the maintenance of neuronal network health, particularly in the context of neuroprotection against neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms by which microglia interact with and influence neurons have remained largely unclear. Recent advances in genetics, pharmacology, and imaging technologies have begun to unveil the mechanisms underlying microglia-neuron communication. Here, from the perspective of microglia, we review the diverse direct and indirect pathways and key molecules through which microglia interact with neurons under both physiological and pathological conditions. This rapidly expanding knowledge is reshaping our understanding of neuron-glia physiology and pathology in neurodegenerative diseases.