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Microglial Polarization

Meaning

Microglial Polarization describes the ability of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, to transition between distinct functional states in response to various stimuli, fundamentally influencing the neuroendocrine environment. The two primary, simplified states are the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype, associated with neurotoxicity and tissue damage, and the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, linked to tissue repair, debris clearance, and neuroprotection. In hormonal health, this process is critically modulated by circulating sex hormones and stress hormones, which can shift the balance toward or away from neuroinflammation. Dysregulated microglial polarization is implicated in numerous neurodegenerative and mood disorders.