Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of microglia in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). For instance, the research by Wan et al. demonstrates that enhancer RNAs, particularly AANCR, regulate APOE expression in astrocytes and microglia, suggesting a genetic basis for microglial dysfunction in AD (ref: Wan doi.org/10.1093/nar/). Schartz et al. further elucidate this by showing that antagonism of C5aR1 can suppress inflammatory glial responses, reduce plaque load, and improve memory deficits in AD mouse models, indicating that targeting the complement pathway may offer therapeutic benefits (ref: Schartz doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51163-6/). Additionally, Shahidehpour et al. explore the connection between dystrophic microglia and the spread of AD neuropathology, suggesting that the loss of protective microglial function may facilitate disease progression (ref: Shahidehpour doi.org/10.1093/brain/). Lee et al. provide compelling evidence that amyloid-β-activated microglia can induce compound proteinopathies, linking microglial activation to the broader spectrum of AD pathology, including tauopathy and synucleinopathy (ref: Lee doi.org/10.1093/brain/). Furthermore, Jury-Garfe et al. identify enhanced microglial dynamics in asymptomatic AD cases, which may contribute to cognitive resilience despite the presence of amyloid pathology (ref: Jury-Garfe doi.org/10.1007/s00401-024-02775-1/). Collectively, these studies underscore the multifaceted roles of microglia in AD, from their involvement in neuroinflammation to their potential protective functions.