Elucidation of the role of microglia‐macrophage‐based neuroinflammation in neurological diseases

Objective To elucidate the roles of microglia and macrophages in neuroinflammation and their dual impact on the progression of neurological diseases. Background Microglia and macrophages are integral components of the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they play important roles in maintaining homeostasis, influencing disease progression, and facilitating repair mechanisms. Methods The review integrates recent advancements in single‐cell RNA sequencing that highlight the extensive heterogeneity of microglia and macrophages, which helps in understanding their wide‐ranging roles in different neurological conditions. Results The analysis reveals that microglia and macrophages have a dual nature, capable of both exacerbating and mitigating disease processes across various conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, peripheral nerve disorders, and brain tumors. Conclusion Modulating the activity of microglia and macrophages offers a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions in neurological disorders. There is a critical need for further research to fully leverage their therapeutic potential in targeting neuroinflammation to enhance patient outcomes.