Molecular Classification
Cell population/state, Immune cell
Other Names
Reactive Microglia
Disease Roles
Alzheimer's diseaseNeurodegenerative disordersBrain injury

Activated Microglia Overview

Activated microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that respond to injury, infection, or disease by shifting from a surveillant state to an activated state. In their activated form, microglia play a central role in neuroinflammation and are key mediators of both protective and pathological processes within the CNS. They can polarize into different functional phenotypes, primarily M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory/tissue repair), though recent research suggests a spectrum of activation states. Targeting activated microglia is being explored as a therapeutic strategy for various neurological diseases.

Mechanism of Action

Modulation of microglial activation state (e.g., shifting from M1 to M2 phenotype, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine release)

Biological Functions

Immune surveillance
Neuroinflammation
Phagocytosis
Antigen presentation
Cytokine production
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
Nitric oxide (NO) production
Tissue repair

Disease Associations

Alzheimer's disease
Neurodegenerative disorders
Brain injury
Inflammation
Infection

Safety Considerations

  • Off-target effects on other immune cells
  • Exacerbation of inflammation
  • Suppression of beneficial microglial functions
  • Potential for neurotoxicity if M1 polarization is excessively promoted

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
CD68
MHC-II
CD86
iNOS
COX2
TNFα
IL6
IL1β
IL10
CD206 (MRC1)