IL4-driven microglia modulate stress resilience through BDNF-dependent neurogenesis

Authors: Jinqiang Zhang, Peijing Rong, Lijuan Zhang, Hui He, Tao Zhou, Yonghua Fan, Li Mo, Qiuying Zhao, Yue Han, Shaoyuan Li, Yifei Wang, Yan Wan, Huafu Chen, Zili You - Science Advances 2021 cited by 273

microglia in the hippocampus by enhancing IL4 signaling restored hippocampal neurogenesis and the resilience to stress-induced depression. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was found necessary for the proneurogenesis effects of IL4-driven microglia. Together, our findings suggest that IL4-driven microglia in the hippocampus trigger BDNF-dependent neurogenesis responding to chronic stress, helping protect against depressive-like symptoms. These findings identify the modulation of a specific microglial phenotype as a treatment strategy for mood disorders.