astrocytes
In addition to being essential supporters of neuronal function, astrocytes are now recognized as active elements in the brain.
Astrocytes sense and integrate synaptic activity and, depending on intracellular Ca(2+) levels, release gliotransmitters (e.g. glutamate, d-serine and ATP) that have feedback actions on neurons.
Pathology
astrocytary lesions
astrocytary diseases
astrocytary tumors
References
Halassa MM, Fellin T, Haydon PG. The tripartite synapse: roles for gliotransmission in health and disease. Trends Mol Med. 2007 Feb;13(2):54-63. PMID: 17207662
Fellin T, Haydon PG. Do astrocytes contribute to excitation underlying seizures? Trends Mol Med. 2005 Dec;11(12):530-3. PMID: 16290019
Pekny M, Pekna M. Astrocyte intermediate filaments in CNS pathologies and regeneration. J Pathol. 2004 Nov;204(4):428-37. PMID: 15495269
Nicoll JA, Weller RO. A new role for astrocytes: beta-amyloid homeostasis and degradation. Trends Mol Med. 2003 Jul;9(7):281-2. PMID: 12900213
Guenette SY. Astrocytes: a cellular player in Abeta clearance and degradation. Trends Mol Med. 2003 Jul;9(7):279-80. PMID: 12900212