Fig. 1
From: Inflammation and neuronal death in the motor cortex of the wobbler mouse, an ALS animal model
Neuroinflammatory process aging or various genetic or environmental defects may induce early damage of motor neurons. ② Resting microglial cells and astrocytes pass a gradual activation process after sensitization by signals of the affected motor neuron. ① ATP or CX3CL1 for example leads to ③ morphological changes and ④ secretion of pro-inflammatory factors like tumor necrosis factor, which is able to induce systemic inflammation, apoptotic cell death, and in the end, ⑤ phagocytosis of neuronal cell debris. In neurodegenerative diseases, activated microglial cells and reactive astrocytes engage in cytokine communication as well, while also maintaining a synergistic balance of neuroprotection and cytotoxity for as long as possible