Neuroprotective function for ramified microglia in hippocampal excitotoxicity.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Most of the known functions of microglia, including neurotoxic and neuroprotective properties, are attributed to morphologically-activated microglia. Resting, ramified microglia are suggested to primarily monitor their environment including synapses. Here, we show an active protective role of ramified microglia in excitotoxicity-induced neurodegeneration.

Methods

Mouse organotypic hippocampal slice cultures were treated with N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) to induce excitotoxic neuronal cell death. This procedure was performed in slices containing resting microglia or slices that were chemically or genetically depleted of their endogenous microglia.

Results

Treatment of mouse organotypic hippocampal slice cultures with 10-50 μM N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMD

SUBMITTER: Vinet J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3292937 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature