Microglia: scapegoat, saboteur, or something else?

Science. 2013 Jan 11;339(6116):156-61. doi: 10.1126/science.1227901.

Abstract

Microglia are resident immune cells in the brain and spinal cord. These cells provide immune surveillance and are mobilized in response to disparate diseases and injuries. Although microglial activation is often considered neurotoxic, microglia are essential defenders against many neurodegenerative diseases. It also seems increasingly likely that microglial dysfunction can underlie certain neurological diseases without an obvious immune component.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / immunology
  • Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / immunology
  • Mental Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Mental Disorders / therapy
  • Microglia / cytology
  • Microglia / immunology
  • Microglia / physiology*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / immunology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / therapy
  • Neurogenic Inflammation / immunology
  • Neurogenic Inflammation / physiopathology*
  • Neuroimmunomodulation / physiology*