Long-term microglial phase-specific dynamics during single vessel occlusion and recanalization

The spatiotemporal dynamics of the microglial inflammatory response to single vessel occlusion and recanalization are analysed, revealing four different response phases. Vascular occlusion leading to brain dysfunctions is usually considered evoking microglia-induced inflammation response. However, it remains unclear how microglia interact with blood vessels in the development of vascular occlusion-related brain disorders. Here, we illuminate long-term spatiotemporal dynamics of microglia during single vessel occlusion and recanalization. Microglia display remarkable response characteristics in different phases, including acute reaction, rapid diffusion, transition and chronic effect. Fibrinogen-induced microglial cluster promotes major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) expression. Microglial soma represents a unique filament-shape migration and has slower motility compared to the immediate reaction of processes to occlusion. We capture proliferative microglia redistribute territory. Microglial cluster resolves gradually and microglia recover to resting state both in the morphology and function in the chronic effect phase. Therefore, our study offers a comprehensive analysis of spatiotemporal dynamics of microglia and potential mechanisms to both vessel occlusion and recanalization. Microglial phase-specific response suggests the morphological feature-oriented phased intervention would be an attractive option for vascular occlusion-related diseases treatments.

Automated summary

This study analyses the spatiotemporal dynamics of the microglial inflammatory response during single vessel occlusion and recanalization, revealing four different response phases. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential mechanisms for vascular occlusion-related disease treatments based on the morphological features of microglial phase-specific responses.