Rachel McNulty * The Effects of Ethanol on Alternative Microglia Cell Activation Research has shown that chronic alcohol use disorder ( AUD ) promotes neurodegeneration . Microglia , the immune cells of the brain , have been implicated in the processes that lead to neural damage , but their full involvement is unknown . When these cells undergo classical activation , they induce pro-inflammatory responses , which may be responsible for neurodegeneration . In contrast , when alternatively activated , microglia will exhibit anti-inflammatory responses that repair damaged tissue and neurons . Studies have shown a correlation between alcohol use and disruptions to alternative activation . Further research is needed to determine whether these effects contribute to neurodegeneration by preventing repair methods .
Magy Saleeb * The Effect of Ethanol on LPS-Induced Microglial Classical Activation Alcohol Use Disorder ( AUD ) is known to impact both the structure and function of the brain in ways that mimic what is observed in neurodegenerative diseases . Microglia , the immune cells of the central nervous system , are thought to be involved in this neurodegeneration . When activated , microglia can follow either a classical , pro-inflammatory pathway or an alternative repair pathway . To determine the effect of alcohol on classical activation , cultured microglia were exposed to alcohol in the presence and absence of microglial activators . Results contradict prior studies and , instead , show possible inhibition and the need for further investigation
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