Microglia as therapeutic targets after neurological injury: strategy for cell therapy

Introduction
Microglia are the resident tissue macrophages of the central nervous system. Prolonged microglial activation often occurs after traumatic brain injury and is associated with deteriorating neurocognitive outcomes. Conversely, the resolution of microglial activation is associated with limited tissue loss and improved neurocognitive outcomes. Thus, limiting the prolonged pro-inflammatory response and the associated secondary tissue injury provides the rationale and scientific premise for considering microglia as a therapeutic target.

Areas Covered
In this review, we discuss microglial activation markers, such as immunophenotype and microglial response to injury…