# Microglia-derived metabolites as novel signaling molecules: regulating neural circuit function, behavior, and their role in psychiatric disorders

## TL;DR

This review explores how microglia release metabolites that influence brain circuits and behavior, and how these processes may be disrupted in psychiatric disorders.

## Contribution

The paper introduces microglia-derived metabolites as novel signaling molecules within the neuro-immune-metabolic axis.

## Key findings

- Microglia-derived metabolites modulate synaptic plasticity and network oscillations.
- Dysregulation of these metabolites contributes to psychiatric disorders.
- Targeting the neuro-immune-metabolic axis offers potential therapeutic strategies.

## Abstract

Microglia, central immune and metabolic regulators, release metabolites that act as signaling molecules into the interstitial space within the neuro-immune-metabolic axis (NIMA). This review synthesizes evidence on how microglia-derived metabolites modulate neural circuit function—affecting synaptic plasticity, network oscillations, and behavior—and how their dysregulation contributes to psychiatric disorders. We highlight the dynamic role of the interstitial space in shaping metabolite signaling and discuss therapeutic strategies targeting this axis. Reconceptualizing microglial metabolites as active circuit modulators offers novel insights into psychiatric pathophysiology and potential metabolic interventions.