Evolving Models and Tools for Microglial Studies in the Central Nervous System

Microglia play multiple roles in such processes as brain development, homeostasis, and pathology. Due to their diverse mechanisms of functions, the complex sub-classifications, and the large differences between different species, especially compared with humans, very different or even opposite conclusions can be drawn from studies with different research models. The choice of appropriate research models and the associated tools are thus key ingredients of studies on microglia. Mice are the most commonly used animal models. In this review, we summarize in vitro and in vivo models of mouse and human-derived microglial research models, including microglial cell lines, primary microglia, induced microglia-like cells, transgenic mice, human-mouse chimeric models, and microglial replacement models. We also summarize recent developments in novel single-cell and in vivo imaging technologies. We hope our review can serve as an efficient reference for the future study of microglia.