Changing Face of Microglia

Manuel B. Graeber

Abstract: Microglia are resident brain cells that sense pathological tissue alterations. They can develop into brain macrophages and perform immunological functions. However, expression of immune proteins by microglia is not synonymous with inflammation, because these molecules can have central nervous system (CNS)–specific roles. Through their involvement in pain mechanisms, microglia also respond to external threats. Experimental studies support the idea that microglia have a role in the maintenance of synaptic integrity. Analogous to electricians, they are capable of removing defunct axon terminals, thereby helping neuronal connections to stay intact. Microglia in healthy CNS tissue do not qualify as macrophages, and their specific functions are beginning to be explored.

Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia. E-mail: manuel{at}graeber.net

Systemic LPS induces spinal inflammatory gene expression and impairs phrenic long-term facilitation following acute intermittent hypoxia.

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The molecular profile of microglia under the influence of glioma.

W. Li and M. B. Graeber (2012)
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Chronic Stress Induced Remodeling of the Prefrontal Cortex: Structural Re-Organization of Microglia and the Inhibitory Effect of Minocycline.

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Evidence that Microglia Mediate the Neurobiological Effects of Chronic Psychological Stress on the Medial Prefrontal Cortex.

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Imaging P2X4 Receptor Lateral Mobility in Microglia: REGULATION BY CALCIUM AND p38 MAPK.

E. Toulme and B. S. Khakh (2012)
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Neurological diseases and pain.

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Brain 135, 320-344
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Rapid monocyte kinetics in acute myocardial infarction are sustained by extramedullary monocytopoiesis.

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Psychogenic dystonia and peripheral trauma..

J. A. Van Gerpen, T. Butler, J. S. Hawley, and W. J. Weiner (2011)
Neurology 77, 2071
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Anatomy of Prostaglandin Signals.

N. Stella (2011)
Science 334, 768-769
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Synaptic Pruning by Microglia Is Necessary for Normal Brain Development.

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Science 333, 1456-1458
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Exploring the Neuroimmunopharmacology of Opioids: An Integrative Review of Mechanisms of Central Immune Signaling and Their Implications for Opioid Analgesia.

M. R. Hutchinson, Y. Shavit, P. M. Grace, K. C. Rice, S. F. Maier, and L. R. Watkins (2011)
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Gene therapy for leukodystrophies.

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