Astrocytes and microglia: Models and tools

Abstract

Glial cells serve as fundamental regulators of the central nervous system in development, homeostasis, and disease. Discoveries into the function of these cells have fueled excitement in glial research, with enthusiastic researchers addressing fundamental questions about glial biology and producing new scientific tools for the community. Here, we outline the pros and cons of in vivo and in vitro techniques to study astrocytes and microglia with the goal of helping researchers quickly identify the best approach for a given research question in the context of glial biology. It is truly a great time to be a glial biologist.

Figure 1.

Purification flow chart. Methods for purification of astrocytes and microglia. Reasons for selection will vary depending on antibody availability, species required, and disease states of interest. iPSC, iPS cell.

Figure 2.

Cell–cell interactions in a culture dish. Several methods available for investigating interactions between cell types. (A) Boyden chamber: Two cell types grown in the same well but separated via semipermeable membrane. This retains bidirectional cell–cell communication via secreted cues. (B) Media transfer: Individual cells grown in isolation with exchanged media containing secreted factors. Benefits include ability to produce and store conditioned medium in bulk (if factors are stable at storage temperatures) and amenity to neutralizing antibodies or drugs. (C) Coculture experiments: Two (or more) types of cells in the same culture well, allowing for communication by secreted factors and direct cell–cell contact.