Topic: yolk sac

Microglia, unlike other brain cells, do not originate from the neuroectodermal layer but migrate from the yolk sac at early embryonic stages. After seeding of microglial progenitors, they colonize the brain parenchyma and mature to become efficient brain phagocytes displaying numerous functions. However, the mechanisms that govern microglial maturation are poorly understood. We hypothesize that microglia maturation program is led by a combination of genetic intrinsic factors and environmental cues. To test our hypothesis, we focused on neuronal-related cues including neuronal scaffolding, secr