Identity of ED2-positive perivascular cells in rat brain.

A controversial, though fundamental, issue in neurobiology concerns the nature, origin, and function of brain macrophages. By immunocytochemical analysis using monoclonal antibodies directed against rat macrophage antigens, i.e., ED1-3, Ox-41, Ox-42, and Ki-M2R, we show that a group of perivascular cells located within the basal membrane of CNS blood vessels are immunoreactive. These cells, which resemble pericytes in terms of their anatomical distribution, are distinct from resting parenchymal microglia immunologically as well as morphologically. Our results demonstrate considerable heterogeneity in the immunophenotype of resident brain macrophages, which may be part of the immune-nervous system interface.