M2b Microglia Activation State Markers
This interactive graphic lists some of the most commonly used M2b microglia markers including CD32, CD64, and SOCS-3. Clicking on a marker will take you to the R&D Systems product selection for researching that molecule. Clicking on a molecule that is designated by (novusbio.com) will take you to the Novus Biologicals’ website and their antibody offerings for that protein. Use the buttons below to see markers associated with different activated microglia phenotypes, or view the markers that are used to identify steady-state microglia.
Overview
Inflammatory responses in the brain are initiated by microglia, the resident immune cells. These cells become activated following exposure to pathological insults, and can display a range of phenotypes, depending on their microenvironment. The different microglia phenotypes exhibit different functions including inflammation, tissue remodeling, and neuronal protection. M2b microglia are considered to be the type II alternatively activated microglia and are associated with increased phagocytic and immunomodulatory activity. Microglia polarize to the M2b phenotype following exposure to immune complexes and TLR agonists. These cells display increased HLA-DR expression, and secrete high amounts of IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, as well as the proinflammatory molecules IL-1 beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha.