Microglia in Alzheimer's disease: A target for immunotherapy

J Leukoc Biol. 2019 Jul;106(1):219-227. doi: 10.1002/JLB.MR0818-319R. Epub 2019 Feb 6.

Abstract

Microglia are resident Mϕs of the CNS that play pleiotropic functions in brain development and homeostasis. Impaired microglial functions are thought to be involved in the onset and progression of various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, understanding microglia in these settings may indicate new approaches for therapeutic intervention. Here, we review recent evidence implicating microglia in Alzheimer's disease and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglia and their receptors in this disease.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; TREM2; immunotherapy; microglia; neuroinflammation; phagocytosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / etiology*
  • Alzheimer Disease / immunology
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / physiology
  • Microglia / physiology*
  • Receptors, Immunologic / physiology

Substances

  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • Receptors, Immunologic
  • TREM2 protein, human