Microglia,the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,exhibit a wide array of functional states,even in their so-called“homeostatic”condition,when they are not actively responding to overt pathological s...Microglia,the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,exhibit a wide array of functional states,even in their so-called“homeostatic”condition,when they are not actively responding to overt pathological stimuli.These functional states can be visualized using a combination of multi-omics techniques(e.g.,gene and protein expression,posttranslational modifications,mRNA profiling,and metabolomics),and,in the case of homeostatic microglia,are largely defined by the global(e.g.,genetic variations,organism’s age,sex,circadian rhythms,and gut microbiota)as well as local(specific area of the brain,immediate microglial surrounding,neuron-glia interactions and synaptic density/activity)signals(Paolicelli et al.,2022).While phenomics(i.e.,ultrastructural microglial morphology and motility)is also one of the key microglial state-defining parameters,it is known that cells with similar morphology can belong to different functional states.展开更多
Persistent postsurgical pain is a major clinical concern,especially in the aging population,who represent a growing proportion of surgical patients.Although age is a known pain risk factor,the mechanisms driving age-r...Persistent postsurgical pain is a major clinical concern,especially in the aging population,who represent a growing proportion of surgical patients.Although age is a known pain risk factor,the mechanisms driving age-related vulnerability to chronic postoperative pain remain poorly understood.This study aims to investigate how aging influences the resolution of postoperative pain and to elucidate the roles of microglial activation and synaptic remodeling in the spinal dorsal horn.A plantar incision model in young(3-month-old)and aged(18-month-old)male and female mice was used to mimic postoperative pain conditions.Mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity at various postoperative intervals were assessed by von Frey and Hargreaves tests.Microglial activation and inhibitory/excitatory synaptic densities in the spinal dorsal horn were evaluated using immunofluorescence and 3D reconstruction with Imaris software.On postoperative day(POD)3,both age groups exhibited reduced pain thresholds on the ipsilateral side,along with microglial activation in the dorsal horn.On POD 7,pain thresholds in young mice had returned to baseline with no significant microglial activation,while aged mice showed sustained reduction in pain thresholds,continuous microglial activation,and significant loss of inhibitory synapses without detectable changes in excitatory synapse density.These findings are consistent across both sexes,with no sex-related differences.Collectively,these results suggest that aging is associated with persistent postoperative pain,which correlates with microglial activation and inhibitory synapse loss.These insights advance our understanding of age-related pain vulnerability and may inform the development of more effective,targeted,and age-specific therapeutic strategies to prevent or alleviate persistent postoperative pain in elderly patients.展开更多
Ischemic stroke is a major cause of neurological deficits and high disability rate.As the primary immune cells of the central nervous system,microglia play dual roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair following a...Ischemic stroke is a major cause of neurological deficits and high disability rate.As the primary immune cells of the central nervous system,microglia play dual roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair following a stroke.Their dynamic activation and polarization states are key factors that influence the disease process and treatment outcomes.This review article investigates the role of microglia in ischemic stroke and explores potential intervention strategies.Microglia exhibit a dynamic functional state,transitioning between pro-inflammatory(M1)and anti-inflammatory(M2)phenotypes.This duality is crucial in ischemic stroke,as it maintains a balance between neuroinflammation and tissue repair.Activated microglia contribute to neuroinflammation through cytokine release and disruption of the blood-brain barrier,while simultaneously promoting tissue repair through anti-inflammatory responses and regeneration.Key pathways influencing microglial activation include Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinases,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathways.These pathways are targets for various experimental therapies aimed at promoting M2 polarization and mitigating damage.Potential therapeutic agents include natural compounds found in drugs such as minocycline,as well as traditional Chinese medicines.Drugs that target these regulatory mechanisms,such as small molecule inhibitors and components of traditional Chinese medicines,along with emerging technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics,offer new therapeutic strategies and clinical translational potential for ischemic stroke.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microgl...Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.展开更多
Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in s...Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in spinal cord injury.Previous studies have shown that microglia can promote neuronal survival by phagocytosing dead cells and debris and by releasing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory factors.However,excessive activation of microglia can lead to persistent inflammation and contribute to the formation of glial scars,which hinder axonal regeneration.Despite this,the precise role and mechanisms of microglia during the acute phase of spinal cord injury remain controversial and poorly understood.To elucidate the role of microglia in spinal cord injury,we employed the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 to deplete microglia.We observed that sustained depletion of microglia resulted in an expansion of the lesion area,downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor,and impaired functional recovery after spinal cord injury.Next,we generated a transgenic mouse line with conditional overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor specifically in microglia.We found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia increased angiogenesis and blood flow following spinal cord injury and facilitated the recovery of hindlimb motor function.Additionally,brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia reduced inflammation and neuronal apoptosis during the acute phase of spinal cord injury.Furthermore,through using specific transgenic mouse lines,TMEM119,and the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX73086,we demonstrated that the neuroprotective effects were predominantly due to brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia rather than macrophages.In conclusion,our findings suggest the critical role of microglia in the formation of protective glial scars.Depleting microglia is detrimental to recovery of spinal cord injury,whereas targeting brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia represents a promising and novel therapeutic strategy to enhance motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.展开更多
Inflammation plays a key role in driving the secondary brain injury that follows ischemic stroke.Melatonin is an endogenous neuroendocrine hormone that regulates mitochondrial homeostasis.However,the role and mechanis...Inflammation plays a key role in driving the secondary brain injury that follows ischemic stroke.Melatonin is an endogenous neuroendocrine hormone that regulates mitochondrial homeostasis.However,the role and mechanisms by which melatonin regulates microglial pyroptosis and the inflammatory cascade through double-stranded DNA(dsDNA)-sensing cyclic GMP-AMP synthase(cGAS)signaling warrant further study.Using middle cerebral artery occlusion mice,we investigated the effects of melatonin on cGAS-mediated pyroptosis and neuroinflammation.Middle cerebral artery occlusion model mice exhibited significantly increased DNA damage and cytoplasmic dsDNA release,as reflected byγH2AX staining,as well as heightened activation of the cytosolic dsDNA-sensing cGAS-STING pathway,both of which were notably suppressed by melatonin treatment.Melatonin also mitigated NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation and nuclear factor(NF)-κB/gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis in microglia following ischemic stroke,while exhibiting the capacity to attenuate the immune response to ischemia in mice.This led to reduced infiltration of peripheral neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages in the ischemic brain.Specifically,melatonin administration resulted in reductions in the numbers of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1-positive cells and production of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-αby microglia.Regarding neurological outcomes,melatonin significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume and ameliorated neurological deficits in mice.Notably,the neuroprotective effect of melatonin was correlated with the inhibition of cGAS activity.We also developed and tested melatonin co-loaded macrophage membrane-biomimetic reactive oxygen species-responsive nanoparticles(Mф-MLT@FNGs),which exhibited therapeutic properties in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice.Our findings suggest that melatonin acts on microglial pyroptosis to inhibit neuroinflammation and reshape the immune microenvironment through regulation of the cGAS-STING-NF-κB signaling pathway.By doing so,melatonin rescues damaged brain tissue and protects neurological function,highlighting its potential as a neuroprotective treatment for ischemic stroke.展开更多
Globally,glaucoma stands as a primary cause of irreversible blindness,marked by intricate pathophysiological processes in which neuroinflammation plays a pivotal role.As the principal immune cells within the central n...Globally,glaucoma stands as a primary cause of irreversible blindness,marked by intricate pathophysiological processes in which neuroinflammation plays a pivotal role.As the principal immune cells within the central nervous system,microglia play a dual function in the progression of glaucoma.Under standard physiological states,microglia safeguard the retina by offering neurotrophic support and removing cellular debris.In the pathological progression of glaucoma,microglia become activated and release significant levels of inflammatory factors,resulting in retinal ganglion cell injury,cell death,and impaired neuroregeneration.This review focuses on examining the dual functions of microglia in glaucoma,evaluating their influence on retinal neurodegeneration and repair,and suggesting that modulating microglial activity could serve as a promising therapeutic strategy.Understanding the mechanisms of microglial action in glaucoma is crucial for unveiling the complex pathophysiological processes of the disease and developing new therapeutic strategies.展开更多
Inflammasomes,a category of protein complexes,recognize exogenous pathogens and endogenous tissue damage.In response,they induce inflammatory responses and pyroptosis,and are involved in both innate immunity and the r...Inflammasomes,a category of protein complexes,recognize exogenous pathogens and endogenous tissue damage.In response,they induce inflammatory responses and pyroptosis,and are involved in both innate immunity and the regulation of adaptive immunity,with significant effects in disease and health.Neuroinflammation is closely related to neurological disorders.Nervous system homeostasis is primarily regulated by glial cells,with microglia and astrocytes playing a dual role in both neuroprotection and neurotoxicity.Recent studies highlight the importance of microglia and astrocytes within the central nervous system in mediating neuroinflammation associated with neuropsychiatric diseases.In particular,the role of inflammasomes in glial cells and neuroinflammation has garnered growing attention.This review classifies inflammasomes and their activation mechanisms as well as explores their involvement in the activation of microglia and astrocytes in various neurological diseases,aiming to contribute a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease and brain injury and identification of novel therapeutic targets.展开更多
Microglia,lipids,and their interaction are found to play important roles in post-stroke immunity.Microglia are sensitive to detect environment change in injured brain.Activated microglia undergo phenotypical remodelin...Microglia,lipids,and their interaction are found to play important roles in post-stroke immunity.Microglia are sensitive to detect environment change in injured brain.Activated microglia undergo phenotypical remodeling and trigger complex signal casca d es to regulate immune responses after stroke.Lipids including peripheral lipid metabolism and lipid droplet biogenesis are involved in the control of microglia functions,such as activation,phagocytosis,proliferation,and pro-inflammation.In this review,we explore new scope of microglia and lipids in immune regulation of stro ke.Implication of peripheral lipid metabolism after stroke is mentioned and advances in microglia-lipid inte raction are discussed We give a special focus on how diet and gut microbiome influence neuroinflammation system via gut-brain axis,and how these processes associate with the risk and outcome of stroke.Moreove r,we reviewed the therapeutic targets related to lipid metabolism and microglial modulation after stro ke.These can provide a prospective strategy for more efficient and safer treatment for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.展开更多
In previous research,we demonstrated that long-term consumption of thermally oxidized oil leads to neuroinflammation and anxiety in mice.Therefore,in this study,we employed polar lipid components from thermo-induced o...In previous research,we demonstrated that long-term consumption of thermally oxidized oil leads to neuroinflammation and anxiety in mice.Therefore,in this study,we employed polar lipid components from thermo-induced oxidized oil to induce neurodamage.Behavioral assessments revealed that both the linoleic acid and AUDA(a classical inhibitor of soluble epoxide hydrolase)groups exhibited significantly reduced anxiety-like behaviors compared to the model group(P<0.05).Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that microglial activation in the hippocampus was attenuated in both the linoleic acid and AUDA groups relative to the model group,accompanied by a reduction in the m RNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1β,IL-6,NOS2,TNF-α)and an upregulation of neuroprotective factors(IL-4,IL-10,BDNF).Lipidomic profiling of hippocampal tissue revealed that the lipid composition of the linoleic acid group closely resembled that of the AUDA group,with a significant downregulation of cardiolipin(CL)compared to the control group,consistent with alterations in the membrane potential channel receptor TRPC1.Both linoleic acid and AUDA inhibited the m RNA expression of EPHX2,leading to an increase in epoxyeicosatrienoic acids(EETs)levels.Furthermore,linoleic acid upregulated the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes(CYP2J6)and lipoxygenase(LOX2S),which further upregulated the synthesis of EETs,and increased the content of 9-HODE and 13-HODE.These findings collectively suggest that linoleic acid alleviates neuroinflammation by modulating microglial differentiation and attenuates neurodegeneration induced by thermally oxidized oil through the regulation of arachidonic acid metabolism and the linoleic acid metabolic pathway,leading to the production of neuroprotective lipid mediators.Therefore,linoleic acid may serve as a potential neuro-nutrient for the treatment of anxiety disorders.This provided a scientific basis for the development of specialized medical foods aimed at protecting neural health.展开更多
The cerebellum is receiving increasing attention for its cognitive,emotional,and social functions,as well as its unique metabolic profiles.Cerebellar microglia exhibit specialized and highly immunogenic phenotypes und...The cerebellum is receiving increasing attention for its cognitive,emotional,and social functions,as well as its unique metabolic profiles.Cerebellar microglia exhibit specialized and highly immunogenic phenotypes under both physiological and pathological conditions.These immune cells communicate with intrinsic and systemic factors and contribute to the structural and functional compartmentalization of the cerebellum.In this review,we discuss the roles of microglia in the cerebellar microenvironment,neuroinflammation,cerebellar adaptation,and neuronal activity,the associated molecular and cellular mechanisms,and potential therapeutic strategies targeting cerebellar microglia in the context of neuroinflammation.Future directions and unresolved questions in this field are further highlighted,particularly regarding therapeutic interventions targeting cerebellar microglia,functional mechanisms and activities of microglia in the cerebellar circuitry,neuronal connectivity,and neurofunctional outcomes of their activity.Cerebellar morphology and neuronal performance are influenced by both intrinsic and systemic factors that are actively monitored by microglia in both healthy and diseased states.Under pathological conditions,local subsets of microglia exhibit diverse responses to the altered microenvironment that contribute to the structural and functional compartmentalization of the cerebellum.Microglia in the cerebellum undergo early maturation during the embryonic stage and display specialized,highly immunogenic phenotypes.In summary,cerebellar microglia have the capacity to serve as regulatory tools that influence outcomes across a wide range of neurological and systemic conditions,including neurodevelopmental,neurodegenerative,metabolic,and stress-related disorders.展开更多
Parkinson’s disease(PD)is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons,and its prevalence is increasing,alongside global population aging.Neuroinflammation has been widely recognized...Parkinson’s disease(PD)is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons,and its prevalence is increasing,alongside global population aging.Neuroinflammation has been widely recognized as a pivotal contributor to PD pathogenesis,particularly owing to the dual role of microglia in this process.This review systematically identifies the multiple factors regulating microglial function and phenotype,thereby driving PD initiation and progression.Furthermore,aging,a major risk factor for PD,and its profound effects on microglial state and functional dynamics are discussed.Notably,microglial hyperactivation is shown to establish a self-perpetuating cycle of“inflammation–damage–reinflammation”through the excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines,which exacerbates neuronal degeneration.Lastly,the potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglial dysfunction,including interventions against the senescence-associated secretory phenotype and the modulation of microglial activity,are summarized.By elucidating how multifactorial alterations in microglial states influence PD pathology,this review provides novel insights and directions for advancing therapeutic research in PD.展开更多
Interaction between Müller cells and microglia aggravates neuroinflammation,resulting in retinal ganglion cell(RGC)death in glaucoma.Here,we investigated how tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)produced by activat...Interaction between Müller cells and microglia aggravates neuroinflammation,resulting in retinal ganglion cell(RGC)death in glaucoma.Here,we investigated how tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)produced by activated microglia mediates the crosstalk between Müller cells and microglia and impacts RGC injury in a chronic ocular hypertension(COH)glaucoma model.In COH retinas,elevated TNF-αinduced the activation of Müller cells and microglia,and recruited microglia to the ganglion cell layer.Co-culture with Müller cells enhanced TNF-α-induced microglial activation,migration,and proliferation.Both in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that chemokine C-C motif ligand 2(CCL2),primarily released from Müller cells,mediated the TNF-α-induced effects on microglia in COH retinas.Knockdown of CCL2 attenuated RGC damage and vision loss.Our results demonstrate that TNF-αreleased from microglia induces the secretion of CCL2 from Müller cells,thus inducing microglial activation and migration,exacerbating retinal neuroinflammation and RGC injury in glaucoma.展开更多
In recent years,rising life expectancy has led to a significant increase in the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders,including Alzheimer’s disease(AD),Parkinson’s disease,and age-related cognitive decline.Addit...In recent years,rising life expectancy has led to a significant increase in the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders,including Alzheimer’s disease(AD),Parkinson’s disease,and age-related cognitive decline.Additionally,other neurological conditions such as glioblastoma,the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults have been more frequently reported in aging populations.The brain itself is highly vulnerable to age-related changes,particularly disruptions in homeostatic regulation,which further contribute to its functional decline and heightened susceptibility to disease.This has led to a surge of interest in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving these changes.展开更多
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion can lead to neuronal necrosis,trigger inflammatory responses,promote white matter damage,and ultimately result in cognitive impairment.Consequently,chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is an i...Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion can lead to neuronal necrosis,trigger inflammatory responses,promote white matter damage,and ultimately result in cognitive impairment.Consequently,chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is an important factor influencing the onset and progression of vascular dementia.The myelin sheath is a critical component of white matter,and damage and repair of the white matter are closely linked to myelin sheath integrity.This article reviews the role of microglia in vascular dementia,focusing on their effects on myelin sheaths and the potential therapeutic implications.The findings suggest that ischemia and hypoxia cause disruption of the blood-brain barrier and activate microglia,which may worsen blood-brain barrier damage through the release of matrix-degrading enzymes.Microglia-mediated metabolic reprogramming is recognized as an important driver of inflammation.Damage to the blood-brain barrier and subsequent inflammation can lead to myelin injury and accelerate the progression of vascular dementia.Early activation of microglia is a protective response that contributes to the maintenance of blood-brain barrier integrity through sensing,debris-clearing,and defensive mechanisms.However,prolonged activation can trigger a shift in microglia toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype,resulting in myelin damage and cognitive impairment.Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 have been identified as potential biomarkers for vascular dementia,as both are closely linked to cognitive decline.Although effective clinical treatments for myelin damage in the central nervous system are currently lacking,researchers are actively working to develop targeted therapies.Several drugs,including nimodipine,dopaminergic agents,simvastatin,biotin,and quetiapine,have been evaluated for clinical use in treating microglial and myelin damage.Future research will face challenges in developing targeted therapeutic strategies for vascular dementia,requiring further investigation into the timing,duration,and specific mechanisms of microglial activation,as well as the exploration of new drug combinations and additional therapeutic targets.展开更多
Microglia are the resident macrophages of the central nervous system.They act as the first line of defense against pathogens and play essential roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair after brain insult or in neu...Microglia are the resident macrophages of the central nervous system.They act as the first line of defense against pathogens and play essential roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair after brain insult or in neurodegenerative and demyelinating diseases(Borst et al.,2021).Together with infiltrating monocyte-derived macrophages,microglia also play a critical role for brain tumor development,since immunosuppressive interactions between tumor cells and tumor-associated microglia and macrophages(TAM)are linked to malignant progression.This mechanism is of particular relevance in glioblastoma(GB),the deadliest form of brain cancer with a median overall survival of less than 15 months(Khan et al.,2023).Therefore,targeting microglia and macrophage activation is a promising strategy for therapeutic interference in brain disease.展开更多
Microglia are the first immune cells that are activated in the brain following ischemic stroke.Mitochondrial dysfunction exacerbates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation post-stroke.Caspase activation and recruitment ...Microglia are the first immune cells that are activated in the brain following ischemic stroke.Mitochondrial dysfunction exacerbates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation post-stroke.Caspase activation and recruitment domain 19(CARD19)is involved in innate immune response and inflammatory response,which are also important functions of microglia.However,the role of CARD19 in microglial biology and ischemic stroke remains unknown.Here,we observed that CARD19 expression was significantly elevated in microglia in the penumbra after ischemic stroke via analyzing the spatial transcriptomic sequencing data of ischemic brain tissue,as well as in an in vitro model of microglial activation.Remarkably,conditional knockdown of Card19 in microglia promoted post-stroke neuroinflammation and worsened neurological outcomes in a mouse model of ischemic stroke.Mechanistically,we found that CARD19 localized to mitochondria and promoted the assembly of mitochondrial intermembrane bridge components,while CARD19 deficiency in microglia caused ultrastructural and functional damage to the mitochondrial cristae,leading to an exaggerated pro-inflammatory response.Thus,our findings suggest that preserving mitochondrial cristae,by targeting CARD19 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for ameliorating neuroinflammation post-stroke and decreasing the volume of the ischemic penumbra.展开更多
The peripheral immune system has emerged as a regulator of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.Microglia are resident immune cells in the brain that may orchestrate communication between the centra...The peripheral immune system has emerged as a regulator of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.Microglia are resident immune cells in the brain that may orchestrate communication between the central nervous system and peripheral immune system,though the mechanisms are unclear.Here,we found that gamma-type immunoglobulin,a product originating from peripheral blood B cells,localized in the brain parenchyma of multiple mouse models with amyloid pathology,and was enriched on microglia but not on other brain cell types.Further experiments showed that gamma-type immunoglobulin bound to microglial cell membranes and led to diverse transcriptomic changes,including upregulation of pathways related to phagocytosis and immunity.Functional assays demonstrated that gamma-type immunoglobulin enhanced microglial phagocytic capacity for amyloid-beta fibrils via its Fc fragment,but not Fab fragment,fragment.Our data indicate that microglia,when exposed to gamma-type immunoglobulin,exhibit an enhanced capacity for clearing amyloid-beta fibrils,potentially via the gamma-type immunoglobulin Fc fragment signaling pathway.This suggests that parenchymal gamma-type immunoglobulin should be further investigated to determine whether it may play a beneficial role against Alzheimer’s disease by enhancing microglial function.展开更多
基金supported by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft,German Research Foundation grant GA 654/13-2 to OG.
文摘Microglia,the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,exhibit a wide array of functional states,even in their so-called“homeostatic”condition,when they are not actively responding to overt pathological stimuli.These functional states can be visualized using a combination of multi-omics techniques(e.g.,gene and protein expression,posttranslational modifications,mRNA profiling,and metabolomics),and,in the case of homeostatic microglia,are largely defined by the global(e.g.,genetic variations,organism’s age,sex,circadian rhythms,and gut microbiota)as well as local(specific area of the brain,immediate microglial surrounding,neuron-glia interactions and synaptic density/activity)signals(Paolicelli et al.,2022).While phenomics(i.e.,ultrastructural microglial morphology and motility)is also one of the key microglial state-defining parameters,it is known that cells with similar morphology can belong to different functional states.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82401445 and 82271249)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2024M752251)+3 种基金the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(No.GZC20241141)the Sichuan Science and Technology Program(No.2024NSFSC1636 and 2025ZNSFSC1645)the Postdoctoral Research Fund of West China Hospital of Sichuan University(No.2024HXBH013)1-3-5 Project for Disciplines of Excellence of West China Hospital of Sichuan University(No.ZYYC23002)。
文摘Persistent postsurgical pain is a major clinical concern,especially in the aging population,who represent a growing proportion of surgical patients.Although age is a known pain risk factor,the mechanisms driving age-related vulnerability to chronic postoperative pain remain poorly understood.This study aims to investigate how aging influences the resolution of postoperative pain and to elucidate the roles of microglial activation and synaptic remodeling in the spinal dorsal horn.A plantar incision model in young(3-month-old)and aged(18-month-old)male and female mice was used to mimic postoperative pain conditions.Mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity at various postoperative intervals were assessed by von Frey and Hargreaves tests.Microglial activation and inhibitory/excitatory synaptic densities in the spinal dorsal horn were evaluated using immunofluorescence and 3D reconstruction with Imaris software.On postoperative day(POD)3,both age groups exhibited reduced pain thresholds on the ipsilateral side,along with microglial activation in the dorsal horn.On POD 7,pain thresholds in young mice had returned to baseline with no significant microglial activation,while aged mice showed sustained reduction in pain thresholds,continuous microglial activation,and significant loss of inhibitory synapses without detectable changes in excitatory synapse density.These findings are consistent across both sexes,with no sex-related differences.Collectively,these results suggest that aging is associated with persistent postoperative pain,which correlates with microglial activation and inhibitory synapse loss.These insights advance our understanding of age-related pain vulnerability and may inform the development of more effective,targeted,and age-specific therapeutic strategies to prevent or alleviate persistent postoperative pain in elderly patients.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,82471345(to LC)the Key Research and Development Program for Social Development by the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Science and Technology.No.BE2022668(to LC).
文摘Ischemic stroke is a major cause of neurological deficits and high disability rate.As the primary immune cells of the central nervous system,microglia play dual roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair following a stroke.Their dynamic activation and polarization states are key factors that influence the disease process and treatment outcomes.This review article investigates the role of microglia in ischemic stroke and explores potential intervention strategies.Microglia exhibit a dynamic functional state,transitioning between pro-inflammatory(M1)and anti-inflammatory(M2)phenotypes.This duality is crucial in ischemic stroke,as it maintains a balance between neuroinflammation and tissue repair.Activated microglia contribute to neuroinflammation through cytokine release and disruption of the blood-brain barrier,while simultaneously promoting tissue repair through anti-inflammatory responses and regeneration.Key pathways influencing microglial activation include Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinases,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathways.These pathways are targets for various experimental therapies aimed at promoting M2 polarization and mitigating damage.Potential therapeutic agents include natural compounds found in drugs such as minocycline,as well as traditional Chinese medicines.Drugs that target these regulatory mechanisms,such as small molecule inhibitors and components of traditional Chinese medicines,along with emerging technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics,offer new therapeutic strategies and clinical translational potential for ischemic stroke.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province,No.202401AS070086(to ZW)the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2018YFA0801403(to ZW)+1 种基金Yunnan Science and Technology Talent and Platform Plan,No.202105AC160041(to ZW)the Natural Science Foundation of China,No.31960120(to ZW)。
文摘Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82072165 and 82272256(both to XM)the Key Project of Xiangyang Central Hospital,No.2023YZ03(to RM)。
文摘Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in spinal cord injury.Previous studies have shown that microglia can promote neuronal survival by phagocytosing dead cells and debris and by releasing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory factors.However,excessive activation of microglia can lead to persistent inflammation and contribute to the formation of glial scars,which hinder axonal regeneration.Despite this,the precise role and mechanisms of microglia during the acute phase of spinal cord injury remain controversial and poorly understood.To elucidate the role of microglia in spinal cord injury,we employed the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 to deplete microglia.We observed that sustained depletion of microglia resulted in an expansion of the lesion area,downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor,and impaired functional recovery after spinal cord injury.Next,we generated a transgenic mouse line with conditional overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor specifically in microglia.We found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia increased angiogenesis and blood flow following spinal cord injury and facilitated the recovery of hindlimb motor function.Additionally,brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia reduced inflammation and neuronal apoptosis during the acute phase of spinal cord injury.Furthermore,through using specific transgenic mouse lines,TMEM119,and the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX73086,we demonstrated that the neuroprotective effects were predominantly due to brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia rather than macrophages.In conclusion,our findings suggest the critical role of microglia in the formation of protective glial scars.Depleting microglia is detrimental to recovery of spinal cord injury,whereas targeting brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia represents a promising and novel therapeutic strategy to enhance motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province,No.YQ2021H011(to QL)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation,Nos.2020M670925,2022T150172(to QL)+2 种基金Postdoctoral Foundation of Heilongjiang Province,Nos.LBH‐Z19027,LBH‐TZ2019(to QL)Institute Cultivation Fund,No.PYMS2023-1(to QL)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,No.BK20241233(to YL).
文摘Inflammation plays a key role in driving the secondary brain injury that follows ischemic stroke.Melatonin is an endogenous neuroendocrine hormone that regulates mitochondrial homeostasis.However,the role and mechanisms by which melatonin regulates microglial pyroptosis and the inflammatory cascade through double-stranded DNA(dsDNA)-sensing cyclic GMP-AMP synthase(cGAS)signaling warrant further study.Using middle cerebral artery occlusion mice,we investigated the effects of melatonin on cGAS-mediated pyroptosis and neuroinflammation.Middle cerebral artery occlusion model mice exhibited significantly increased DNA damage and cytoplasmic dsDNA release,as reflected byγH2AX staining,as well as heightened activation of the cytosolic dsDNA-sensing cGAS-STING pathway,both of which were notably suppressed by melatonin treatment.Melatonin also mitigated NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation and nuclear factor(NF)-κB/gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis in microglia following ischemic stroke,while exhibiting the capacity to attenuate the immune response to ischemia in mice.This led to reduced infiltration of peripheral neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages in the ischemic brain.Specifically,melatonin administration resulted in reductions in the numbers of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1-positive cells and production of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-αby microglia.Regarding neurological outcomes,melatonin significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume and ameliorated neurological deficits in mice.Notably,the neuroprotective effect of melatonin was correlated with the inhibition of cGAS activity.We also developed and tested melatonin co-loaded macrophage membrane-biomimetic reactive oxygen species-responsive nanoparticles(Mф-MLT@FNGs),which exhibited therapeutic properties in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice.Our findings suggest that melatonin acts on microglial pyroptosis to inhibit neuroinflammation and reshape the immune microenvironment through regulation of the cGAS-STING-NF-κB signaling pathway.By doing so,melatonin rescues damaged brain tissue and protects neurological function,highlighting its potential as a neuroprotective treatment for ischemic stroke.
基金supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(DFG)with grants PR1569/1-1 and PR 1569/1-3(to VP).
文摘Globally,glaucoma stands as a primary cause of irreversible blindness,marked by intricate pathophysiological processes in which neuroinflammation plays a pivotal role.As the principal immune cells within the central nervous system,microglia play a dual function in the progression of glaucoma.Under standard physiological states,microglia safeguard the retina by offering neurotrophic support and removing cellular debris.In the pathological progression of glaucoma,microglia become activated and release significant levels of inflammatory factors,resulting in retinal ganglion cell injury,cell death,and impaired neuroregeneration.This review focuses on examining the dual functions of microglia in glaucoma,evaluating their influence on retinal neurodegeneration and repair,and suggesting that modulating microglial activity could serve as a promising therapeutic strategy.Understanding the mechanisms of microglial action in glaucoma is crucial for unveiling the complex pathophysiological processes of the disease and developing new therapeutic strategies.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82371405(to HZ),82203683(to YH)the Hubei Provincial Key Research Projects,No.2022BCA027.
文摘Inflammasomes,a category of protein complexes,recognize exogenous pathogens and endogenous tissue damage.In response,they induce inflammatory responses and pyroptosis,and are involved in both innate immunity and the regulation of adaptive immunity,with significant effects in disease and health.Neuroinflammation is closely related to neurological disorders.Nervous system homeostasis is primarily regulated by glial cells,with microglia and astrocytes playing a dual role in both neuroprotection and neurotoxicity.Recent studies highlight the importance of microglia and astrocytes within the central nervous system in mediating neuroinflammation associated with neuropsychiatric diseases.In particular,the role of inflammasomes in glial cells and neuroinflammation has garnered growing attention.This review classifies inflammasomes and their activation mechanisms as well as explores their involvement in the activation of microglia and astrocytes in various neurological diseases,aiming to contribute a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease and brain injury and identification of novel therapeutic targets.
基金Shanghai Municipal Health Commission,No.20224Z0008(to PY)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82101412(to MZ)+1 种基金the Science Foundation of Naval Medical Center of PLA,No.23M2702(to MZ)National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2023YFC2506506(QL)。
文摘Microglia,lipids,and their interaction are found to play important roles in post-stroke immunity.Microglia are sensitive to detect environment change in injured brain.Activated microglia undergo phenotypical remodeling and trigger complex signal casca d es to regulate immune responses after stroke.Lipids including peripheral lipid metabolism and lipid droplet biogenesis are involved in the control of microglia functions,such as activation,phagocytosis,proliferation,and pro-inflammation.In this review,we explore new scope of microglia and lipids in immune regulation of stro ke.Implication of peripheral lipid metabolism after stroke is mentioned and advances in microglia-lipid inte raction are discussed We give a special focus on how diet and gut microbiome influence neuroinflammation system via gut-brain axis,and how these processes associate with the risk and outcome of stroke.Moreove r,we reviewed the therapeutic targets related to lipid metabolism and microglial modulation after stro ke.These can provide a prospective strategy for more efficient and safer treatment for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
基金supported by National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD2100300)Pilot Research Project of Wuxi Industrial Innovation Research Institute(XD24019).
文摘In previous research,we demonstrated that long-term consumption of thermally oxidized oil leads to neuroinflammation and anxiety in mice.Therefore,in this study,we employed polar lipid components from thermo-induced oxidized oil to induce neurodamage.Behavioral assessments revealed that both the linoleic acid and AUDA(a classical inhibitor of soluble epoxide hydrolase)groups exhibited significantly reduced anxiety-like behaviors compared to the model group(P<0.05).Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that microglial activation in the hippocampus was attenuated in both the linoleic acid and AUDA groups relative to the model group,accompanied by a reduction in the m RNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1β,IL-6,NOS2,TNF-α)and an upregulation of neuroprotective factors(IL-4,IL-10,BDNF).Lipidomic profiling of hippocampal tissue revealed that the lipid composition of the linoleic acid group closely resembled that of the AUDA group,with a significant downregulation of cardiolipin(CL)compared to the control group,consistent with alterations in the membrane potential channel receptor TRPC1.Both linoleic acid and AUDA inhibited the m RNA expression of EPHX2,leading to an increase in epoxyeicosatrienoic acids(EETs)levels.Furthermore,linoleic acid upregulated the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes(CYP2J6)and lipoxygenase(LOX2S),which further upregulated the synthesis of EETs,and increased the content of 9-HODE and 13-HODE.These findings collectively suggest that linoleic acid alleviates neuroinflammation by modulating microglial differentiation and attenuates neurodegeneration induced by thermally oxidized oil through the regulation of arachidonic acid metabolism and the linoleic acid metabolic pathway,leading to the production of neuroprotective lipid mediators.Therefore,linoleic acid may serve as a potential neuro-nutrient for the treatment of anxiety disorders.This provided a scientific basis for the development of specialized medical foods aimed at protecting neural health.
基金supported by grants from STI2030-Major Projects,No.2021ZD0204000(to YS)Key Strategic Science and Technology Cooperation Project of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China,No.SQ2023YFE0201430(to YS)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.31820103005(to YS),32200620(to LW)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province of China,No.LZ24C090003(to YS)。
文摘The cerebellum is receiving increasing attention for its cognitive,emotional,and social functions,as well as its unique metabolic profiles.Cerebellar microglia exhibit specialized and highly immunogenic phenotypes under both physiological and pathological conditions.These immune cells communicate with intrinsic and systemic factors and contribute to the structural and functional compartmentalization of the cerebellum.In this review,we discuss the roles of microglia in the cerebellar microenvironment,neuroinflammation,cerebellar adaptation,and neuronal activity,the associated molecular and cellular mechanisms,and potential therapeutic strategies targeting cerebellar microglia in the context of neuroinflammation.Future directions and unresolved questions in this field are further highlighted,particularly regarding therapeutic interventions targeting cerebellar microglia,functional mechanisms and activities of microglia in the cerebellar circuitry,neuronal connectivity,and neurofunctional outcomes of their activity.Cerebellar morphology and neuronal performance are influenced by both intrinsic and systemic factors that are actively monitored by microglia in both healthy and diseased states.Under pathological conditions,local subsets of microglia exhibit diverse responses to the altered microenvironment that contribute to the structural and functional compartmentalization of the cerebellum.Microglia in the cerebellum undergo early maturation during the embryonic stage and display specialized,highly immunogenic phenotypes.In summary,cerebellar microglia have the capacity to serve as regulatory tools that influence outcomes across a wide range of neurological and systemic conditions,including neurodevelopmental,neurodegenerative,metabolic,and stress-related disorders.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32161143021,81271410)the Henan Natural Science Foundation(182300410313).
文摘Parkinson’s disease(PD)is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons,and its prevalence is increasing,alongside global population aging.Neuroinflammation has been widely recognized as a pivotal contributor to PD pathogenesis,particularly owing to the dual role of microglia in this process.This review systematically identifies the multiple factors regulating microglial function and phenotype,thereby driving PD initiation and progression.Furthermore,aging,a major risk factor for PD,and its profound effects on microglial state and functional dynamics are discussed.Notably,microglial hyperactivation is shown to establish a self-perpetuating cycle of“inflammation–damage–reinflammation”through the excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines,which exacerbates neuronal degeneration.Lastly,the potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglial dysfunction,including interventions against the senescence-associated secretory phenotype and the modulation of microglial activity,are summarized.By elucidating how multifactorial alterations in microglial states influence PD pathology,this review provides novel insights and directions for advancing therapeutic research in PD.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32471057,32271043,82301215,and 82171047)the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project(2018SHZDZX01)ZJLab,the Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Technology.
文摘Interaction between Müller cells and microglia aggravates neuroinflammation,resulting in retinal ganglion cell(RGC)death in glaucoma.Here,we investigated how tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)produced by activated microglia mediates the crosstalk between Müller cells and microglia and impacts RGC injury in a chronic ocular hypertension(COH)glaucoma model.In COH retinas,elevated TNF-αinduced the activation of Müller cells and microglia,and recruited microglia to the ganglion cell layer.Co-culture with Müller cells enhanced TNF-α-induced microglial activation,migration,and proliferation.Both in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that chemokine C-C motif ligand 2(CCL2),primarily released from Müller cells,mediated the TNF-α-induced effects on microglia in COH retinas.Knockdown of CCL2 attenuated RGC damage and vision loss.Our results demonstrate that TNF-αreleased from microglia induces the secretion of CCL2 from Müller cells,thus inducing microglial activation and migration,exacerbating retinal neuroinflammation and RGC injury in glaucoma.
基金supported by the Swedish ResearchCouncil and the Swedish Brain Foundation,theCancer Research Funds of Radiumhemmet,theStrategic Research Area in Cancer(StratCan),the Strategic Research Area in Neuroscience(StratNeuro),the Swedish Cancer Society,theSwedish Childhood Cancer Foundation,theKarolinska Institutet Foundation,the InnoHKinitiative of the Innovation and TechnologyCommission of the Hong Kong SpecialAdministrative Region Government(to BJ).Openaccess funding is provided by the KarolinskaInstitute.
文摘In recent years,rising life expectancy has led to a significant increase in the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders,including Alzheimer’s disease(AD),Parkinson’s disease,and age-related cognitive decline.Additionally,other neurological conditions such as glioblastoma,the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults have been more frequently reported in aging populations.The brain itself is highly vulnerable to age-related changes,particularly disruptions in homeostatic regulation,which further contribute to its functional decline and heightened susceptibility to disease.This has led to a surge of interest in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving these changes.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Beijing,No.7232279(to XW)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U21A20400(to QW)Key Project of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,Nos.2022-JYB-JBZR-004(to XW),2024-JYB-JBZD-043(to CL).
文摘Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion can lead to neuronal necrosis,trigger inflammatory responses,promote white matter damage,and ultimately result in cognitive impairment.Consequently,chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is an important factor influencing the onset and progression of vascular dementia.The myelin sheath is a critical component of white matter,and damage and repair of the white matter are closely linked to myelin sheath integrity.This article reviews the role of microglia in vascular dementia,focusing on their effects on myelin sheaths and the potential therapeutic implications.The findings suggest that ischemia and hypoxia cause disruption of the blood-brain barrier and activate microglia,which may worsen blood-brain barrier damage through the release of matrix-degrading enzymes.Microglia-mediated metabolic reprogramming is recognized as an important driver of inflammation.Damage to the blood-brain barrier and subsequent inflammation can lead to myelin injury and accelerate the progression of vascular dementia.Early activation of microglia is a protective response that contributes to the maintenance of blood-brain barrier integrity through sensing,debris-clearing,and defensive mechanisms.However,prolonged activation can trigger a shift in microglia toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype,resulting in myelin damage and cognitive impairment.Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 have been identified as potential biomarkers for vascular dementia,as both are closely linked to cognitive decline.Although effective clinical treatments for myelin damage in the central nervous system are currently lacking,researchers are actively working to develop targeted therapies.Several drugs,including nimodipine,dopaminergic agents,simvastatin,biotin,and quetiapine,have been evaluated for clinical use in treating microglial and myelin damage.Future research will face challenges in developing targeted therapeutic strategies for vascular dementia,requiring further investigation into the timing,duration,and specific mechanisms of microglial activation,as well as the exploration of new drug combinations and additional therapeutic targets.
基金Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(DFG,German Research Foundation),project numbers 324633948 and 409784463(DFG grants Hi 678/9-3 and Hi 678/10-2,FOR2953)to HHBundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung-BMBF,project number 16LW0463K to HT.
文摘Microglia are the resident macrophages of the central nervous system.They act as the first line of defense against pathogens and play essential roles in neuroinflammation and tissue repair after brain insult or in neurodegenerative and demyelinating diseases(Borst et al.,2021).Together with infiltrating monocyte-derived macrophages,microglia also play a critical role for brain tumor development,since immunosuppressive interactions between tumor cells and tumor-associated microglia and macrophages(TAM)are linked to malignant progression.This mechanism is of particular relevance in glioblastoma(GB),the deadliest form of brain cancer with a median overall survival of less than 15 months(Khan et al.,2023).Therefore,targeting microglia and macrophage activation is a promising strategy for therapeutic interference in brain disease.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81920108017(to YX),82401546(to HL)Jiangsu Province Key Medical Discipline,No.ZDXK202216(to YX)the Key Research and Development Program of Jiangsu Province of China,No.BE2020620(to YX).
文摘Microglia are the first immune cells that are activated in the brain following ischemic stroke.Mitochondrial dysfunction exacerbates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation post-stroke.Caspase activation and recruitment domain 19(CARD19)is involved in innate immune response and inflammatory response,which are also important functions of microglia.However,the role of CARD19 in microglial biology and ischemic stroke remains unknown.Here,we observed that CARD19 expression was significantly elevated in microglia in the penumbra after ischemic stroke via analyzing the spatial transcriptomic sequencing data of ischemic brain tissue,as well as in an in vitro model of microglial activation.Remarkably,conditional knockdown of Card19 in microglia promoted post-stroke neuroinflammation and worsened neurological outcomes in a mouse model of ischemic stroke.Mechanistically,we found that CARD19 localized to mitochondria and promoted the assembly of mitochondrial intermembrane bridge components,while CARD19 deficiency in microglia caused ultrastructural and functional damage to the mitochondrial cristae,leading to an exaggerated pro-inflammatory response.Thus,our findings suggest that preserving mitochondrial cristae,by targeting CARD19 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for ameliorating neuroinflammation post-stroke and decreasing the volume of the ischemic penumbra.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82171082(to ZX),32000727(to TZ),32370731(to YZ)Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2024A151501069(to ZX)+1 种基金Shenzhen Science and Technology Program,Nos.JCYJ20210324101603009(to ZX),GJHZ20220913142807015(to TZ),JCYJ20220531100204010(to TZ),JCYJ20230807091308018(to YZ)Shenzhen Medical Research Funds,No.A2303068(to TZ).
文摘The peripheral immune system has emerged as a regulator of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.Microglia are resident immune cells in the brain that may orchestrate communication between the central nervous system and peripheral immune system,though the mechanisms are unclear.Here,we found that gamma-type immunoglobulin,a product originating from peripheral blood B cells,localized in the brain parenchyma of multiple mouse models with amyloid pathology,and was enriched on microglia but not on other brain cell types.Further experiments showed that gamma-type immunoglobulin bound to microglial cell membranes and led to diverse transcriptomic changes,including upregulation of pathways related to phagocytosis and immunity.Functional assays demonstrated that gamma-type immunoglobulin enhanced microglial phagocytic capacity for amyloid-beta fibrils via its Fc fragment,but not Fab fragment,fragment.Our data indicate that microglia,when exposed to gamma-type immunoglobulin,exhibit an enhanced capacity for clearing amyloid-beta fibrils,potentially via the gamma-type immunoglobulin Fc fragment signaling pathway.This suggests that parenchymal gamma-type immunoglobulin should be further investigated to determine whether it may play a beneficial role against Alzheimer’s disease by enhancing microglial function.
