TGF-β Signaling in Microglia: A Key Regulator of Development, Homeostasis and Reactivity

Abstract

Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), are crucial for normal brain development and function. They become reactive in response to brain injury and disease, a process known as microglial reactivity. This reactivity, along with microglial homeostasis, is tightly regulated by the local microenvironment and interactions with surrounding cells. The TGF-β signaling pathway plays an essential role in this regulation. Recent genetic studies employing microglia-specific manipulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway have shed light on its significance in microglial development, homeostasis and reactivity. This review provides an updated overview of how TGF-β signaling modulates microglial function and reactivity, contributing to our understanding of microglial biology in health and disease.

Keywords

• microglia
• reactive microglia
• TGF-β
• homeostasis
• Alzheimer’s disease
• APOE