Microglia and Neuroinflammation

Abstract

Microglia, specialized immune cells within the central nervous system (CNS), are central to maintaining CNS health and protecting against damage and infections. However, their improper activation can contribute to the development and progression of various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, autism, and traumatic brain injury. Neuroinflammation, a complex process involving microglia and other glial cells, is considered a key factor in the pathogenesis of many neurological disorders. To comprehensively address this, this chapter introduces microglia's essential role in CNS homeostasis and sets the stage for understanding the concept of neuroinflammation, range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, cutting-edge imaging and genetic tools, the potential therapeutic strategies for modulating microglial function and targeting neuroinflammation.