Microglia and macrophages in the neuro-glia-vascular unit: From identity to functions

Although both are myeloid cells located surrounding cerebral vasculature, vessel-associated microglia (VAM) and perivascular macrophages (PVMs) can be distinguished by their distinct morphologies, signatures and microscopic location. As key component of neuro-glia-vascular unit (NGVU), they play prominent roles in neurovasculature development and pathological process of various central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including phagocytosis, angiogenesis, vessel damage/protection and blood flow regulation, therefore serving as potential targets for therapeutics of a broad array of CNS diseases. Herein, we will provide a comprehensive overview of heterogeneity of VAM/PVMs, highlight limitations of current understanding in this field, and discuss possible directions of future investigations.