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Beyond Activation: Characterizing Microglial Functional Phenotypes.

Authors :
Lier J
Streit WJ
Bechmann I
Source :
Cells [Cells] 2021 Aug 28; Vol. 10 (9). Date of Electronic Publication: 2021 Aug 28.
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Classically, the following three morphological states of microglia have been defined: ramified, amoeboid and phagocytic. While ramified cells were long regarded as "resting", amoeboid and phagocytic microglia were viewed as "activated". In aged human brains, a fourth, morphologically novel state has been described, i.e., dystrophic microglia, which are thought to be senescent cells. Since microglia are not replenished by blood-borne mononuclear cells under physiological circumstances, they seem to have an "expiration date" limiting their capacity to phagocytose and support neurons. Identifying factors that drive microglial aging may thus be helpful to delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent progress in single-cell deep sequencing methods allowed for more refined differentiation and revealed regional-, age- and sex-dependent differences of the microglial population, and a growing number of studies demonstrate various expression profiles defining microglial subpopulations. Given the heterogeneity of pathologic states in the central nervous system, the need for accurately describing microglial morphology and expression patterns becomes increasingly important. Here, we review commonly used microglial markers and their fluctuations in expression in health and disease, with a focus on IBA1 low/negative microglia, which can be found in individuals with liver disease.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2073-4409
Volume :
10
Issue :
9
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Cells
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
34571885
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10092236