Microglia sculpt postnatal neural circuits in an activity and complement-dependent manner

Abstract summary

Review of the evidence that microglia actively remodel synaptic circuits throughout life. Covered complement-dependent synapse elimination, microglial phagocytosis of synaptic material, and the dysregulation of this process in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Highlighted microglia as key effectors of synaptic homeostasis.

Evidence labels

Therapeutic relevance

Synapse-protecting strategies targeting complement-microglial interactions may have broad applicability in neurological disease.