Microglia rescue neurons from aggregate-induced neuronal dysfunction and death through tunneling nanotubes

Microglia are crucial for maintaining brain health and neuron function. Here, we report that microglia establish connections with neurons using tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in both physiological and pathological conditions. These TNTs facilitate the rapid exchange of organelles, vesicles, and proteins. In neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, toxic aggregates of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) and tau accumulate within neurons. Our research demonstrates that microglia use TNTs to extract neurons from these aggregates, restoring neuronal health. Additionally, microglia share their healthy mitochondria with burdened neurons, reducing oxidative stress and normalizing gene expression.…

• AF
  Alzheimer Forschung Initiative
• DF
  Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

  Awards: EXC2151-390873048, EXC2151, 390873048
• GH
  Gemeinnützige Hertie-Stiftung
• DZ
  Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen