Microglia, one of the glial cell types in the central nervous system (CNS), is an important integral component of the neuro-glial cell network [1]. They have been observed in the brain parenchyma from the early stage of development to the mature state. Microglia play an important role in brain immune surveillance. They can present antigens in the molecular context of MHC class II expression to CD-4 positive T cells, and are capable of Fc-mediated phagocytosis, and share many common antigens with hemopoietic and tissue macrophages [2]. Upon activation, they act as brain macrophages to clear tissue debris, damaged cells, or microbes, when programmed cell death occurs during brain development or when the CNS is injured. Furthermore, there is evidence that microglia are involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes in the brain through interaction with neurons, other glial cells, and production of biologically active substances such as growth factors and cytokines[3].

MM from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from postnatal day 2 C57BL/6 mouse brain. MM are cryopreserved after purification and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >1 x 10^6 cells in 1 ml volume. MM are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibody to CD11b and F4/80. MM are negative for mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. MM are guaranteed to further culture under the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories; however, MM are not recommended for expanding or long-term cultures since the cells do not proliferate in regular culture.

Recommended Medium
It is recommended to use Microglia Medium (MM, Cat. #1901) for the culturing of MM in vitro.