Immune Cells in the Brain Discovered to Control Puberty and Reproduction

Summary: In a surprising shift in our understanding of reproductive biology, researchers have discovered that fertility is not controlled by neurons alone. The study reveals that microglia—the brain’s primary immune…

Brain Cells Behind Depression Identified

Summary: Researchers analyzing post-mortem brain tissue found two cell types altered in people with depression: excitatory neurons that regulate mood and stress, and microglia that manage inflammation. The findings highlight…

Brain Changes From Early-Life Stress May Be Reversible

Summary: A new study reveals how prenatal infections followed by early-life stress—known as “two-hit stress”—can lead to brain dysfunction and psychiatric-like behaviors. Researchers found that affected mice showed abnormal cerebellar…

Microglia Act Differently in Male and Female Brains

Summary: Microglia, the brain’s immune cells, play vital roles in clearing toxins and maintaining neuronal health but can also contribute to neurodegenerative diseases if overactive. New research reveals sex-based differences…

Immunotherapy Shows Promise as Alzheimer’s Treatment

Summary: Researchers unveiled a novel approach to combat Alzheimer’s disease by activating microglia, the brain’s immune cells, to devour amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of the condition. This study highlights…

Microglia’s Role in Controlling Anxiety and OCD

Summary: A new study reveals how microglia can regulate anxiety and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder (OCSD) behaviors. Traditionally overlooked in favor of neurons, specific microglia populations were found to both stimulate…

Unique Microglia Subset Crucial for Cognitive Functioning

Summary: A new study discovered not all microglia are the same, challenging existing beliefs. A unique subset of these cells, the ARG1+microglia, important for proper cognitive functions, were identified in…