Overview

• Nature Communications study led by Ukpong B. Eyo provides definitive in vivo proof that microglia regulate cerebral capillary basal tone via cyclooxygenase-1.
• Experimental depletion of microglia in mice reduced capillary diameter and blood perfusion, and restoring microglia reversed these deficits.
• The identification of microglial cyclooxygenase-1 as the modulator of capillary tone highlights a new avenue for boosting brain blood flow in Alzheimer’s and related disorders.
• UVA has established the Harrison Family Translational Research Center to translate these insights into microglia-focused neurodegenerative treatments.
• Upcoming research will explore optimal intervention windows and microglia-cell interactions to guide the development of blood flow–enhancing therapies.