Microglia are modified monocytes (another white blood cell that is part of the immune response) that have become incorporated into the brain during its development. Microglia move around the cerebrum, to protect the brain against pathogens and remove dead cells. Microglia can take on various forms and there is evidence that they are able to turn into a form of astrocyte. Microglia, probably astrocytes, and monocytes in the blood, produce interlukin-1 which is one of a group of substances that stimulate lymphocytes and other white cells into action including the production of anti-bodies. However IL-1 is not an antibody itself. It has a variety of actions and is also known as an ‘endogenous pyrogen’. When released in relatively large quantities it raises body temperature and causes fever. Of even more interest is that IL-1 is a potent sleep inducer.
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