We outline methods for the efficient and quick isolation/culture of viable microglia from the neonatal cerebral cortex and adult spinal cord. The dissection and plating of cortical microglia can be accomplished within 90 minutes, with the subsequent microglial harvest taking place ~ 10 days following the initial dissection.
Bronstein, R., Torres, L., Nissen, J. C., Tsirka, S. E. Culturing Microglia from the Neonatal and Adult Central Nervous System. J. Vis. Exp. (78), e50647, doi:10.3791/50647 (2013).