Work

Phagocytosis is crucial for brain repair

Year: 2026

Type: editorial

Abstract: Phagocytic engulfment and digestion of extracellular material are essential for debris removal, metabolic recycling, tissue remodeling, and inflammation control after brain injury. However, the coordination of phagocytosis across cell types and disease contexts remains incompletely understood. Ju et al. demonstrate that remote ischemic conditioning enhances CD36-dependent phagocytic activity in recruited monocytes/macrophages, which contributes to improved stroke recovery. Building on these important findings, we suggest that effective brain repair requires coordinated phagocytosis across multiple cell types, extending beyond apoptotic neurons to diverse injury-associated substrates. We further argue that intracellular signaling, aging, sex, and circadian biology shape phagocytic efficiency and therapeutic potential.

Source: Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism

DOI: 10.1177/0271678x261436170

Authors: Junxuan Lyu, Wenting Zhang, Wan-Chen Wu, Rehana Leak, Jun Chen

Institutions: University of Pittsburgh, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Duquesne University

Language: English

Topic: Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration Mechanisms

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,200