Microglia/Macrophages in Autoimmune Demyelinating Encephalomyelitis (Multiple Sclerosis/Neuromyelitis Optica)
Ryo Yamasaki
Abstract
Microglia and macrophages are critical mediators of immune responses in the central nervous system. Their roles range from homeostatic maintenance to the pathogenesis of autoimmune demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. This review explores the origins of microglia and macrophages, as well as their mechanisms of activation, interactions with other neural cells, and contributions to disease progression and repair processes. It also highlights the translational relevance of insights gained from animal models and the therapeutic potential of targeting microglial and macrophage activity in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.
Topics & Concepts
Neuromyelitis opticaMultiple sclerosisMicrogliaExperimental autoimmune encephalomyelitisDemyelinating DisorderImmunologyMedicineNeuroimmunologySpectrum disorderDemyelinating diseaseNeuroscienceImmune systemAcute disseminated encephalomyelitisBiologyInflammationPsychiatryNeuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration MechanismsMultiple Sclerosis Research StudiesImmune Response and Inflammation