Protocol for assessing phagocytosis activity in cultured primary murine microglia

In this protocol, we describe steps to assess inflammation-induced cell response in cultured primary murine microglia through the analysis of fluorescent bead phagocytosis. We detail primary murine mixed glial cell culture preparation followed by microglia-specific isolation. Further, we describe treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce phagocytosis of fluorescent beads, followed by quantitative analysis using fluorescent imaging and Fiji – ImageJ software. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Parrott et al.¹