Abstract

Microglial activation is a central feature of many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis, responding to injury, and participating in neuroinflammatory processes. However, prolonged or excessive activation of microglia can lead to neurodegeneration, contributing to the progression of various neurological disorders. This article reviews the role of microglial activation in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on its dual functions in both protecting and damaging neural tissue. The activation of microglia is shown to involve a complex interplay of signaling pathways that result in either neuroprotective or neurotoxic outcomes, depending on the context of the disease and the surrounding microenvironment. Current research highlights the potential for targeting microglial activation as a therapeutic strategy to modulate inflammation and slow disease progression. The review also discusses the challenges and opportunities in developing such therapies, emphasizing the need for more precise and effective treatments.