Neurorestorative Roles of Microgliosis and Astrogliosis in Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration

Abstract

The pathophysiological processes involved in neurodegenerative diseases have not been clearly defined. Nevertheless, a significant aspect of the proof focuses directly on the function of several mechanisms of inflammation. The immune system is represented in the central nervous system by the microglial cell capable of detecting harmful or foreign pathogens, and thus initiates self-activation and neuro-inflammatory processes via phagocytosis and cytokines release, to maintain the cellular microenvironment. Then, microglial cells can spawn an emphasis on persistent inflammation that sometimes precedes or promote the neurodegenerative processes. Hence, the neuro-inflammatory micro-environment turns toxic and damaging to the neuronal cell, leading to degeneration and release of several factors which trigger an inflammatory reaction of the microglia, activating the neurodegenerative cycle. The biomechanical properties of the brain, neuronal regeneration, and plasticity can be modified by reactive gliosis. Defining the inception and development of reactive microgliosis and astrogliosis is vital for better clinical treatments design.