Microglial-mediated clearance of aggregated tau

Microglial-mediated clearance of aggregated tau refers to the process by which microglia recognize, internalize, and degrade pathological forms of tau protein. Microglia can internalize both monomeric and fibrillar forms of extracellular tau through phagocytosis. The efficiency with which microglia clear tau aggregates depends on several factors, including the phosphorylation state of tau, receptor interactions (CX3CR1, TLRs), and lysosomal function. In AD, microglia play a dual role: protective by engulfing and degrading extracellular aggregated tau, and pathogenic by releasing exosomes containing seeding-competent tau species. Genetic variants affecting microglial function—such as those in TREM2—are associated with altered risk for AD. Experimental manipulation enhancing microglial phagocytic activity has been shown to reduce amyloid plaque load; similar strategies are being explored for promoting clearance of pathological tau species.

Other names

Microglial tau clearanceTau phagocytosis by microgliaMicroglia-mediated tau degradation

Enhancing microglial phagocytic activity to promote clearance of pathological tau species