Long-term characterization of activated microglia/macrophages facilitating the development of experimental brain metastasis through intravital microscopic imaging.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Microglia/macrophages (M/Ms) with multiple functions derived from distinct activation states are key surveillants maintaining brain homeostasis. However, their activation status and role during the brain metastasis of malignant tumors have been poorly characterized.

Methods

Heterozygous CX3CR1-GFP transgenic mice were used to visualize the dynamic changes of M/Ms during the development of experimental brain metastasis through long-term intravital imaging equipped with redesigned bilateral cranial windows. The occurrence of experimental brain metastasis was evaluated after M/Ms were depleted with PLX3397, a CSF-1R inhibitor. The possible mediators of M/Ms in facilitating the brain metastasis were determined using reverse transcription-PCR, immunofluorescence, corre

SUBMITTER: Qiao S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6323850 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature