BRAIN MACROPHAGES - NEUROTOXIC OR NEUROTROPHIC EFFECTOR-CELLS

The development of the central nervous system and various pathological contexts imply remodeling or alteration of neuronal networks associat ed with tissue recruitment of mononuclear phagocytes. Purification and culture of brain macrophages have provided a tool for investigating t he functions of these cells. We discuss different mechanisms whereby m acrophages could directly influence the survival of neurons and the gr owth of their processes.