The role of microglia in neuropsychiatric disorders and suicide

This narrative review examines the possible role of microglial cells, first, in neuroinflammation and, second, in schizophrenia, depression, and suicide. Recent research on the interactions between microglia, astrocytes and neurons and their involvement in pathophysiological processes of neuropsychiatric disorders is presented. This review focuses on results from postmortem, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies, and animal models of schizophrenia and depression. Third, the effects of antipsychotic and antidepressant drug therapy, and of electroconvulsive therapy on microglial cells are explored and the upcoming development of therapeutic drugs targeting microglia is described. Finally, there is a discussion on the role of microglia in the evolutionary progression of human lineage. This view may contribute to a new understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders.

Automated summary

This review examines the potential role of microglial cells in neuroinflammation and neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia, depression, and suicide. It discusses the interactions between microglia, astrocytes, and neurons in pathophysiological processes and explores the effects of drug therapy and electroconvulsive therapy on microglial cells. Finally, it also touches upon the evolutionary role of microglia in human lineage and how this understanding may shape perceptions of neuropsychiatric disorders.