AI Summary
This article discusses research by Scheiblich et al. on how microglia use tunneling nanotubes to connect with neurons burdened by α-syn or tau proteins, allowing for the transfer and clearance of these proteins by microglia. The study also found that microglia donate mitochondria to restore neuronal health. This discovery opens up new potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Scheiblich et al. uncover a novel mechanism by which microglia use tunneling nanotubes to connect with α-syn- or tau-burdened neurons, enabling transfer of these proteins to microglia for clearance. Microglia donate mitochondria to restore neuronal health, shedding light on new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.