Neuroinflammation
underlies the etiology of multiple neurodegenerative diseases and
stroke. Our understanding of neuroinflammation has evolved in the last
few years and major players have been identified. Microglia, the brain
resident macrophages, are considered sentinels at the forefront of the
neuroinflammatory response to different brain insults. Interestingly,
microglia perform other physiological functions in addition to their
role in neuroinflammation. Therefore, an updated approach in which
modulation, rather than complete elimination of microglia is necessary.
In this review, the emerging roles of microglia and their interaction
with different components of the neurovascular unit are discussed. In
addition, recent data on sex differences in microglial physiology and in
the context of stroke will be presented. Finally, the multiplicity of
roles assumed by microglia in the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke,
and in the presence of co-morbidities such as hypertension and diabetes
are summarized.
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