Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Microglia-associated progression of multiple sclerosis: target identification and therapeutic engagement in human in vitro models

Alica Blenkle, Anastasia Geladaris, Martin S. Weber

Experimental & Molecular Medicine · 2026

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Summary

This narrative review examines human in vitro models, particularly induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microglia systems, as tools for understanding chronic multiple sclerosis progression. The authors argue that these models offer advantages over animal systems for dissecting the complex cellular mechanisms driving progressive MS, with a focus on microglia's role in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The review synthesises current methodological approaches, discusses their utility for target identification, and proposes a framework for therapeutic development.

Regional applicability

This is a methodological and translational review with no geographical restrictions on applicability. The advances in human in vitro model systems described are relevant internationally, including to United Kingdom neuroscience and MS research institutions and pharmaceutical development.

Key measures

Methodological assessment of induced pluripotent stem cell-based microglia models; evaluation of target identification and therapeutic engagement approaches

Outcomes reported

The review examines advances in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microglia models for understanding MS progression mechanisms and identifying novel therapeutic targets. It discusses the strengths, limitations, and translational applications of these in vitro systems for modulating microglia-associated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

Theme
Nutrition & health
Subject
Out of scope / non-food
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
System type
Laboratory / in vitro
DOI
10.1038/s12276-026-01647-w
Catalogue ID
SNmq64coy2-ztswjz

Topic tags

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