BPoD has moved!

BPoD has recently changed our domain name - we can now be found at bpod.org.uk

Please update your bookmarks!

Now in our 13th year of bringing you beautiful imagery from biomedical science every day

Search the archive of over 4000 images

Targeting Neurons
20 May 2016

Targeting Neurons

Neurons, the data processing cells of our brain, work to transmit information to muscle cells and other nerve cells. Through a process called neurogenesis, new ones develop from stem cells mainly in the subventricular zone of our brain. Specialised cells called microglia work in this zone clearing up dead and defective brain cells, protecting the brain and maintaining healthy cells. To see how this process is regulated, researchers removed two receptors from microglia in mice called Axl and Mer, which recognise dead cells and target them to be destroyed. They found that without them, dead cells (stained green) began to accumulate in areas of brain where new cells are continuously regenerating. Therefore, Axl and Mer could be possible targets in diseases such as Parkinson’s where there are a larger number of dysfunctional cells than normal.

Written by Katie Panteli

Search The Archive

Submit An Image

Follow on Tumblr

Follow on Instagram

What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

Read More

BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.