Activity-dependent regulation of microglia numbers by pyramidal cells during development shape cortical functions.

ABSTRACT: Beyond their role as immune sentinels, microglia are actively involved in establishing and maintaining cortical circuits. Alteration in microglial numbers has been associated with abnormal behaviors akin to those observed in neurodevelopmental disorders. Consequently, establishing the appropriate microglial numbers during development is crucial for ensuring normal cortical function. Here, we uncovered a dynamic relationship between pyramidal cells and microglia that tunes microglial numbers and development through distinct phases of mouse postnatal development. Changes in pyramidal cell activity during development induce differential release of activity-dependent proteins such as Activin A, which, in turn, adjusts microglial numbers accordingly. Decoupling of this relationship not only cha

SUBMITTER: Kumaraguru S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11838000 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature