pMGLs further adopt canonical high-order branching patterns once embedded in a differentiated neuro-glial environment. Their surveying behavior is reminiscent of that observed in vivo in the landmark two-photon imaging studies of the dynamic process motility of microglia in intact mouse brains 38. Furthermore, they respond to localized injury by migrating and encapsulating the damaged area. pMGLs are capable of major and rapid morphological changes, as well as secretion of highly bioactive cytokines and chemokines. It will be particularly interesting to study their secretomes in the context of disease models to which we applied this paradigm.
