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0This research article explores how neuronal hyperactivity triggers the elimination of synapses in the adult brain through a coordinated immune response. By manipulating hippocampal circuits in mice, researchers found that excessive activity causes the innate immune protein C1q to deposit on specific synaptic terminals, leading to their removal. The study reveals a novel role for the adaptive immune system, specifically showing that B-lineage cells migrate to active brain regions to secrete immunoglobulins that facilitate this process. Furthermore, reducing hyperactivity in an Alzheimer’s disease model lowered C1q levels and helped preserve synaptic density. These findings establish a critical link between circuit activity and neuroimmune interactions in both healthy and pathological states. Overall, the work suggests that immune-mediated synaptic pruning continues into adulthood to refine neural connections in response to activity.
References:
Crowley G, Kim M, O’Neill N, et al. C1q and immunoglobulins mediate activity-dependent synapse loss in the adult brain[J]. Science, 2026, 393(6807): eadv1219.
