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
- astrocytomas and glial 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