A Novel in Vivo Model for Investigating Alternatively Activated Rod-Shaped Microglia

Project Description Narrative:

Neuroinflammation is the main underlying factor responsible for health issues arising from traumatic or repeated brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research has revealed the importance of the diverse and dynamic nature of microglia in response to brain disease. Quoting from a review published in 2021, “Rod microglia are a variant of activated microglia reported in the brain after neurological injury and disease. Despite their discovery over 100 years ago, little is known about their formation, expression, or function. Advanced molecular tools are required to elucidate the role of rod microglia.”

This project will utilize advanced molecular and microscopy tools, along with a novel relevant vertebrate model, Danionella cerebrum, to directly improve our fundamental understanding of these alternatively activated microglia in vivo. D. cerebrum remains small and transparent in the adult stage and possesses an easily accessible brain suitable for longitudinal optical- and genetic-based studies. The researchers’ goals of understanding the origin, function and state plasticity of rod-shaped microglia, as well as identifying their functional modulators and markers for early detection will facilitate new discoveries, open new avenues of research and enhance our ability to improve treatments that reduce neurological injury and disease pathogenesis. Results from this study will be relevant for a wide range of neuropathological disorders where neuroinflammation is a contributing factor.