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Abstract

Neuroscience

Rapid and Efficient Enrichment of Mouse Spinal Cord Microglia

Published: September 22nd, 2023

DOI:

10.3791/65961

1Epidemiology, Endocrinology & Nutrition, Mexico Children's Hospital, 2Pharmacy Department, National School of Biological Sciences, National Polytechnic Institute, 3Graduate Department, Dr. Eduardo Liceaga General Hospital of Mexico, 4Pain Clinic and Palliative Care, Dr. Eduardo Liceaga General Hospital of Mexico, 5General Surgery Service, Metropolitan Angeles Hospital

Abstract

The vertebral column defines a vertebrate and shapes the spinal canal, a cavity that encloses and safeguards the spinal cord. Proper development and function of the mammalian central nervous system rely significantly on the activity of resident macrophages known as microglia. Microglia display heterogeneity and multifunctionality, enabling distinct gene expression and behavior within the spinal cord and brain. Numerous studies have explored cerebral microglia function, detailing purification methods extensively. However, the purification of microglia from the spinal cord in mice lacks a comprehensive description. In contrast, the utilization of a highly purified collagenase, as opposed to an unrefined extract, lacks reporting within central nervous system tissues. In this study, the vertebral column and spinal cord were excised from 8-10 week-old C57BL/6 mice. Subsequent digestion employed a highly purified collagenase, and microglia purification utilized a density gradient. Cells underwent staining for flow cytometry, assessing viability and purity through CD11b and CD45 staining. Results yielded an average viability of 80% and a mean purity of 95%. In conclusion, manipulation of mouse microglia involved digestion with a highly purified collagenase, followed by a density gradient. This approach effectively produced substantial spinal cord microglia populations.

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Keywords Spinal Cord

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