Role of meningeal macrophages in adult homeostatic neurogenesis

The meninges, a protective and nourishing tissue surrounding the central nervous system (CNS) and supporting the brain, have drawn considerable attention due to the presence of various immune cells, including meningeal macrophages (MM). Although macrophages are primarily associated with inflammation, they also secrete molecules like cytokines and growth factors that can influence cell proliferation, even under normal conditions.

To investigate whether MM could influence adult neurogenesis, we used chemical and genetic innovative models depleting MM in adult mice and we measured the impact of this blockade using RT-qPCR and neurogenesis in the hippocampus.