Visualizing Dark Microglia

Dark microglia, a recently described phenotype, are found in high numbers in nonhomeostatic conditions (e.g., Alzheimer's disease pathology, aging, chronic stress). As a specific protein marker has not yet been defined, they cannot be studied using conventional cellular biology techniques. They are recognized by their unique ultrastructural features visible under electron microscopy. This nanoscale resolution imaging technique allows the identification of cells based on their ultrastructure or immunoreactivity to certain proteins. In this protocol, we describe the steps necessary for the preparation of high-quality brain tissues for transmission electron microscopy, the imaging, the identification of dark microglia, and the ultrastructural analysis of various parameters that can be studied in these cells.