Expression profiling of microglia lacking Tgfbr2

Microglia contribute to maintaining brain homeostasis by interacting with neurons and macroglial cells through different signaling molecules. Here, we investigate the transcriptional profile of microglia lacking TGFbeta signaling given by inactivation of the Tgfbr2 gene, at three different stages of development. These microglia show a signature consistent with increased activation and impaired maturation, representing a state commonly associated with neurological pathologies. Microglia lacking one or the two copies of the Tgfbr2 gene were FACS-sorted for RNA extraction at E16.5, P15, and P60. Three animals per genotype were used at E16.5 and P15, and 4 animals per genotype were used at P60.