Brain's support cells, always on the go

When the brain is injured or infected, cells called microglia leap into action. A new study indicates that these cells, which researchers previously had thought were quiescent in life's less-stressful moments, are constantly sweeping their surroundings for signs of danger.

Most microglia research has been confined to lab dishes, in which the cells are constantly moving, changing shape, and otherwise active. But scientists presumed that the activity was a result of the abnormal and stressful context of being in the lab instead of in the brain.

This article is available only to subscribing members. Join SSP today or Log in.