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[Microglia-type cells in normal and pathologic human embryonic brains]
Abstract:
The brains of 7--12 week embryos, developing in normal and mentally ill females (normal--14, schizophrenia--12, other mental disorders--10) were studied by means of electron microscopy. It was established that the cells of the microglia type may be encountered in the brain of embryos beginning from 7 weeks. In the brain of embryos from normal females these cells had mainly a round or oval form (globose microglia). Axons were encountered relatively rarely. Some of the cells had protrusions of the pseudopodia-like type. In the brain of embryos from mentally ill females the cells of the microglia type have diverse, sometimes sticklike forms; they form multiple thin axons, actively fagocyte. The ultrastructure in such conditions was not destructed. These changes are considered to be the result of an increased activity of microglial cells under the influence of factors of the pathological process.
Insights
Microglia cells in developing brains of embryos from mentally ill mothers show increased activity and diverse forms. These changes suggest a response to pathological factors during early brain development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Context:
- Investigates early embryonic brain development.
- Examines the influence of maternal mental illness on fetal brain development.
- Utilizes electron microscopy for ultrastructural analysis.
Purpose:
- To characterize microglial cell morphology and activity in embryonic brains.
- To compare microglial cells in embryos from normal versus mentally ill mothers.
- To understand the early cellular responses in the developing brain under pathological conditions.
Summary:
- Microglia cells are present from 7 weeks of gestation.
- In embryos from normal mothers, microglia are typically round or oval (globose).
- In embryos from mentally ill mothers, microglia exhibit diverse, stick-like forms, increased axon formation, and active phagocytosis without ultrastructural damage.
Impact:
- Suggests increased microglial activity in response to pathological factors during early development.
- Provides insights into potential cellular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental alterations.
- Highlights the sensitivity of the developing brain to maternal health status.