Microglia-mediated synaptic pruning in neural circuit remodeling: multidimensional control in homeostasis and neuropathology.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review without systematic methodology or primary human data
PubMed 42420985 · doi:10.1186/s12916-026-05016-2
What was done
This narrative review summarizes the molecular and cellular mechanisms of microglia-mediated synaptic pruning and neural circuit remodeling. It evaluates physiological regulators (including circadian rhythms and the microbiota-gut-brain axis) and examines pathways of pathological synapse loss in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.
What was found
The abstract reports no quantitative data or numerical outcomes. It describes conceptual frameworks and pathways, noting that microglial interactions, epigenetic regulation, extracellular matrix remodeling, metabolic adaptation, and excessive complement-mediated engulfment contribute to the transition from homeostatic circuit refinement to neurodegenerative or psychiatric pathology.
Why it matters
It consolidates current mechanistic views on microglial heterogeneity and functional states, framing microglia-targeted interventions as potential therapeutic avenues for restoring neural circuit integrity.
Limits
The paper is a narrative review with no primary empirical data, reported sample sizes, or systematic search methodology. Specific disease mechanisms and pathways discussed are largely derived from preclinical and mechanistic models rather than direct human clinical trials.
Cited by
- supports Microglial activation triggered by gut permeability and inflammatory cytokines leads to synaptic and dendritic degradation in the brain.