Microglial Metabolic Reprogramming In Alzheimer’S Disease: Pathways, Mechanisms, And Therapeutic Implications
Our brains rely on specialized immune cells called microglia to stay healthy. These tiny guardians constantly monitor the brain environment, clearing away debris and protecting against damage. However, in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, these crucial cells undergo a significant shift in their “metabolism” – essentially, how they generate and use energy. This change, known as metabolic reprogramming, is a key factor in the disease’s progression.
Normally, microglia efficiently produce energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation. But in Alzheimer’s, they often switch to a less efficient method called glycolysis, similar to how some rapidly growing cells fuel themselves. This metabolic shift isn’t just about energy; it fundamentally alters how microglia behave. Instead of effectively clearing harmful protein clumps, their “phagocytic function” (their ability to “eat” and remove waste) diminishes, and they can become more inflammatory, contributing to “neuroinflammation” or inflammation within the brain.
Understanding these metabolic changes is crucial because it opens up new avenues for fighting Alzheimer’s. By identifying specific “biomarkers” – indicators that can help diagnose the disease early – and developing therapies that target and correct these metabolic imbalances in microglia, scientists hope to restore their protective functions and slow down or even prevent the devastating effects of the disease.
Source: link to paper