Gamma frequency neuronal oscillations modulate microglia morphology via colony stimulating factor 1 receptor and NFκB pathway signalling
Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Abstract: Within the brain, neurons and glial cells engage in dynamic crosstalk to maintain homeostasis and regulate neuroimmune responses. Recent studies have implicated rhythmic neuronal network activity, most notably at gamma oscillation frequencies (approx. 25-100 Hz), in modulating the morphology and function of microglia, the brain’s primary immune cells. Little is known, however, about the cellular mechanisms underlying this form of neuroimmune communication. Using pharmacological and optogenetic models of gamma oscillations in mouse brain slices, we found that gamma oscillations stimulate microglia to adopt a reactive morphological phenotype via activation of colony stimulation factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) and nuclear factor κB-mediated signalling. Surprisingly, inhibition of two downstream mediators of CSF1R signalling – phosphoinositide-3-kinase or phospholipase C – did not prevent this effect, suggesting that neuron-microglia interactions in this context may occur via compensatory or alternative CSF1R-linked pathways. These findings provide important insights into how rhythmic brain activity regulates neuroimmune function, with potential implications for neurological health and disease.
Institution: University of Exeter
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
Awards: G128878811, G2773165587
OpenAlex ID: W4408212490