Mikrogliasejtek

Mikrogliasejtek, also known as microglia, are the primary immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS). They are derived from myeloid progenitor cells and enter the brain during early development. Unlike other glial cells, which originate from the neuroectoderm, microglia have a mesodermal origin.

In the healthy brain, microglia exist in a resting or surveying state, constantly monitoring their environment. They extend and retract their processes to detect changes in the CNS milieu. Upon encountering stimuli such as infection, injury, or cellular debris, microglia become activated. This activation triggers a transformation into various functional states, including phagocytosis, where they engulf and clear unwanted material. They also play a crucial role in synaptic pruning, a process essential for neural development and plasticity.

Microglial activation is a complex process involving the release of various signaling molecules, including cytokines and chemokines. These molecules can have both beneficial and detrimental effects. While essential for fighting off pathogens and repairing damage, chronic or excessive microglial activation can contribute to neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Research into microglia is ongoing, aiming to understand their diverse roles and to develop therapeutic strategies that modulate their activity for treating neurological disorders.