{"id":443,"date":"2019-10-09T14:04:40","date_gmt":"2019-10-09T14:04:40","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/human-memory.net\/?p=443"},"modified":"2022-05-20T09:47:56","modified_gmt":"2022-05-20T09:47:56","slug":"astrocytes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/","title":{"rendered":"Astrocytes"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_17 counter-hierarchy counter-decimal ez-toc-grey\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><i class=\"ez-toc-glyphicon ez-toc-icon-toggle\"><\/i><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class=\"ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1\"><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Boost_Your_Brain_with_Mind_Lab_Pro\" title=\"\n\t\tBoost Your Brain with Mind Lab Pro\n\t\">\n\t\tBoost Your Brain with Mind Lab Pro\n\t<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Benefits\" title=\"\n\t\tBenefits\n\t\">\n\t\tBenefits\n\t<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Structure\" title=\"Structure\">Structure<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Types\" title=\"Types \">Types <\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Fibrous_astrocytes\" title=\"Fibrous astrocytes:\">Fibrous astrocytes:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Protoplasmic_astrocytes\" title=\"Protoplasmic astrocytes:\">Protoplasmic astrocytes:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Embryologic_Development\" title=\"Embryologic Development\">Embryologic Development<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Functions\" title=\"Functions\">Functions<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Regulation_of_ionic_concentration\" title=\"Regulation of ionic concentration:\">Regulation of ionic concentration:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Physical_support\" title=\"Physical support:\">Physical support:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Blood-brain_barrier\" title=\"Blood-brain barrier:\">Blood-brain barrier:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Fuel_reserve\" title=\"Fuel reserve:\">Fuel reserve:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Regulation_of_blood_flow\" title=\"Regulation of blood flow:\">Regulation of blood flow:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Excretion_of_wastes\" title=\"Excretion of wastes:\">Excretion of wastes:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Synapse_structure\" title=\"Synapse structure:\">Synapse structure:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Glial_limiting_membrane\" title=\"Glial limiting membrane:\">Glial limiting membrane:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Repair\" title=\"Repair:\">Repair:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Cellular_network\" title=\"Cellular network:\">Cellular network:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Pathologies_associated_with_Astrocytes\" title=\"Pathologies associated with Astrocytes\">Pathologies associated with Astrocytes<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Astrocytoma\" title=\"Astrocytoma\">Astrocytoma<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Alzheimers_disease\" title=\"Alzheimer\u2019s disease\">Alzheimer\u2019s disease<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#Alexanders_disease\" title=\"Alexander\u2019s disease:\">Alexander\u2019s disease:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#ConclusionSummary\" title=\"Conclusion\/Summary\">Conclusion\/Summary<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#References\" title=\"References\">References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Boost_Your_Brain_with_Mind_Lab_Pro\"><\/span>\n\t\tBoost Your Brain with Mind Lab Pro\n\t<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\t<p><strong>Your brain is incredibly complex. Mind Lab Pro has 11 different nootropics all working together to increase your cognition and brainpower to help you live a better life.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you need to perform at your best, need to focus, problem-solve or maintain a calm and clear mindset, you will get a huge benefit from taking Mind Lab Pro.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mindlabpro.com?a_aid=5f9802ef2d90f&amp;a_bid=6d45f5c3\" target=\"_blank\" role=\"button\" rel=\"noopener nofollow noreferrer\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTry Mind Lab Pro Today \u2192\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/takespruce.com\/product\/750mg-lab-grade-cbd-oil?rfsn=4424690.8df824\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow noreferrer\" itemprop=\"url\">\n\t\t\t\t<img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" height=\"281\" width=\"300\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/mind-lab-pro.png?resize=300%2C281&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"mind-lab-pro\" itemprop=\"image\" title=\"mind-lab-pro\" onerror=\"this.style.display='none'\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits\"><\/span>\n\t\tBenefits\n\t<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t<ul>\n<li>Better focus<\/li>\n<li>Calm mindset<\/li>\n<li>55+ memory and mood<\/li>\n<li>Performance focused athletes<\/li>\n<li>Student learning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\t<p>All the organs in the body are made up of two types of cells; the <strong>parenchymal cells<\/strong> that perform the actual function of that organ, and the supporting cells that provide support and nutrition to the parenchymal cells. <\/p>\nThe same is true for the brain and spinal cord. The<br>\nnervous system consists of neurons that perform the actual function of the<br>\nsystem. The supporting cells that provide nutrition, support, and protection to<br>\nthe neurons are called the glial cells.\n<p>Astrocytes are a subtype of glial cells present in the brain and spinal cord.&nbsp; They are the most <strong>abundant glial cells <\/strong>present in brain. Astrocytes have two subtypes and are performing a number of functions. In the article, we will review different aspects related to astrocytes.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Structure\"><\/span>Structure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Human-Astrocytes.jpg?resize=590%2C369\" alt=\"\" width=\"590\" height=\"369\"><\/figure>\n<p>As the name suggests, astrocytes are <strong>star-shaped cells<\/strong>. They have several processes radiating from the central body. There are two types of astrocytes. Each type has its own structure depending on the function performed by it.<\/p>\n<p> Generally, astrocytes have sparse organelles and have several processes radiating from the central cell body. These processes may be branched or unbranched. Each process of the astrocytes shows extensive terminal branching that allows a single astrocyte to be associated with a number of neuronal synapses. <\/p>\n<p>Some processes have vascular feet at their end and take part in forming the <strong>blood-brain barrier (BBB)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types\"><\/span>Types <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Astrocytes are divided into two broad categories:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fibrous_astrocytes\"><\/span>Fibrous astrocytes:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/astrocyte.jpg?resize=642%2C401\" alt=\"\" width=\"642\" height=\"401\"><\/figure>\n<p>The <strong>fibrous astrocytes<\/strong> have long processes radiating from the central cell body. These processes are unbranched. They have only a few organelles. The long processes have vascular feet that encircle the capillaries present in the vicinity of the astrocytes. <\/p>\n<p>These astrocytes are typically seen in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord. They are less common as compared to the protoplasmic astrocytes.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protoplasmic_astrocytes\"><\/span>Protoplasmic astrocytes:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Astrocyte_by_togopic.png?w=1200\" alt=\"\"><\/figure>\n<p>The <strong>protoplasmic astrocytes <\/strong>have short processes. The processes of protoplasmic astrocytes are branched. They have abundant organelles and cytoplasm, as evident from the name. <\/p>\nThis type of astrocytes is more abundantly present in<br>\nthe CNS. They are seen in the grey matter of the brain and spinal cord.\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Embryologic_Development\"><\/span>Embryologic Development<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/neuroepithelial-cells.jpg?fit=1024%2C472&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"555\" height=\"255\"><\/figure>\n<p>Astrocytes are derived for the cells of neuroepithelium present in <strong>developing neural tube<\/strong>. The neuroepithelial cells upon differentiation produce glioblasts, also called the spongioblasts. <\/p>\n<p>These glioblasts differentiate into oligodendroblasts and astroblasts. The oligodendroblasts give rise to oligodendrocytes. The astroblasts further differentiate into protoplasmic astrocytes or fibrous astrocytes. <\/p>\nThus, the precursor of astrocytes is the same<br>\nneuroepithelium that gives rise to other glial cells as well as neurons present<br>\nin the CNS.\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Functions\"><\/span>Functions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<figure><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Astrocytes.png?resize=648%2C363\" alt=\"\" width=\"648\" height=\"363\"><\/figure>\n<p><strong>Astrocytes<\/strong> are the most abundant and the most diverse glial cells present in the CNS. They perform a number of functions that are essential for the normal functioning of neurons. Below is given a brief detail of the functions of astrocytes.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulation_of_ionic_concentration\"><\/span>Regulation of ionic concentration:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Astrocytes play the most important role in the regulation of extracellular ionic concentration around the neurons. The concentration of various ions in the extracellular fluid controls the nerve impulse generation and transmission in the neurons.<\/p>\n<p> If the ionic concentration gets disturbed, the neurons may fail to generate or propagate nerve impulses. <\/p>\n<p>Astrocytes regulate the extracellular ionic concentration by buffering the extracellular potassium (K+) ions. <\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Physical_support\"><\/span>Physical support:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\nThe cytoplasmic processes of the astrocytes provide<br>\nphysical support to the neurons. They play an important role in deciding the<br>\nstructure of brain. They provide the physical support for the movement of<br>\ndifferentiating neurons in the developing brain. \n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Blood-brain_barrier\"><\/span>Blood-brain barrier:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/brain-1.png?resize=540%2C384\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"384\"><\/figure>\n<p>The <strong>Blood-brain<\/strong> barrier prevents the entry of large sized particles, ions or proteins from blood into the extracellular material of the brain. It is very essential for keeping the brain in a separate compartment. <\/p>\n<p>Astrocytes play an important role in forming the blood-brain barrier. The protoplasmic processes of astrocytes have vascular feet. They encircle the endothelial cells of the capillaries present in the brain. <\/p>\n<p>They prevent any leakage or movement of any unwanted substance from the blood in the capillaries to the <strong>extracellular matrix of brain<\/strong>. Thus, astrocytes make an important component of the blood-brain barrier. <\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fuel_reserve\"><\/span>Fuel reserve:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\nAstrocytes are the glial cells that act as fuel<br>\nreserve to the neurons. These cells are capable of storing glycogen and providing<br>\nit to the neurons when necessary.\nThe astrocytes not only store glucose in the form of<br>\nglycogen but can also produce glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Astrocytes<br>\nare the only glial cells that are capable of gluconeogenesis. Thus, they can<br>\nprovide newly formed glucose to the neurons. <br>\nThey also provide other nutrients to the neurons such as lactate etc.\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulation_of_blood_flow\"><\/span>Regulation of blood flow:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/blood-flow-brain.jpg?fit=1024%2C736&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"502\" height=\"359\"><\/figure>\nAstrocytes can also control the blood flow in the<br>\nbrain. They act as vaso-modulators. These cells regulate the vasodilation in<br>\nthe CNS thus controlling blood flow. \n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Excretion_of_wastes\"><\/span>Excretion of wastes:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\nAstrocytes collect metabolites and other waste<br>\nproducts and move them to the capillaries. Thus, they have a role in the<br>\nremoval of harmful metabolites and waste products from the CNS. \n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Synapse_structure\"><\/span>Synapse structure:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>protoplasmic processes<\/strong> of astrocytes cover the various <strong>synapses<\/strong> present in the CNS. They have a role in the structure and formation of synapses. They also affect the functioning of synapses and their plasticity.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Glial_limiting_membrane\"><\/span>Glial limiting membrane:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Neuron_in_tissue_culture.jpg?fit=1024%2C804&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"539\" height=\"423\"><\/figure>\n<p>The foot <strong>processes of astrocytes<\/strong> make glial limiting membrane. It is the outer most layer of neuronal tissue in the brain and spinal cord. The glial limiting membrane lines the meninges on the outer surface of the CNS.<\/p>\n<p> It prevents the migration of neurons and glial cells and neurons into the meninges. It also regulates the movement of small molecules between the meninges and the parenchyma of the brain and spinal cord. <\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Repair\"><\/span>Repair:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Astrocytes are also thought to play a role in the repair of the neuronal tissues in CNS. When injury occurs to the nervous tissue in the brain or spinal cord, astrocytes migrate to that place and form glial scar. <\/p>\n<p>The research studies have shown that this glial scar plays an important role in the process of regeneration. It also allows the axons to grow and pass through the injured tissue present in the spinal cord. <\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cellular_network\"><\/span>Cellular network:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\nAstrocytes can freely communicate with one another<br>\nthrough gap junctions. In this way, they form a very large highly coordinated<br>\ncellular network throughout the CNS. It helps in the regulation of various<br>\nactivities in the brain and spinal cord.\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pathologies_associated_with_Astrocytes\"><\/span>Pathologies associated with Astrocytes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\nDifferent pathologies associated with the astrocytes<br>\nare given below.\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Astrocytoma\"><\/span>Astrocytoma<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Astrocytoma.jpg?fit=1024%2C759&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"414\"><\/figure>\n<p>Most of the brain tumors are <strong>astrocytomas<\/strong>. These are the cancerous cells derived from astrocytes. They occur mostly in the brain but are sometimes seen in the spinal cord. <\/p>\nDepending on the malignancy and severity, the<br>\nastrocytomas are of two types:\n<p><strong>Pilocytic astrocytoma<\/strong>: They are the slow growing tumors of astrocytes that are mostly benign. They most commonly occur in the cerebellum and produce symptoms related to balance and gait disturbances.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Anaplastic astrocytoma<\/strong>: They are the malignant tumors of astrocytes that show rapid growth. They can rapidly invade the surrounding healthy tissue. They rapidly grow into larger size tumors that cannot be removed by surgery.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alzheimers_disease\"><\/span>Alzheimer\u2019s disease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Alzheimers_disease_brain_preclinical.jpg?fit=1024%2C814&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\"><\/figure>\nAstrocytes are considered to play an important role in<br>\nthe pathogenesis of Alzheimer\u2019s disease. They produce a large amount of<br>\nbeta-amyloid proteins. The deposition of these beta-amyloids is the most<br>\nsignificant factor that contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer\u2019s disease.\n\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alexanders_disease\"><\/span>Alexander\u2019s disease:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Alexander\u2019s-disease.jpg?fit=1024%2C679&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"633\" height=\"419\"><\/figure>\nIt is a rare disease characterized by destruction of<br>\nmyelin sheath around the neurons and deposition of abnormal protein deposits.<br>\nIt is associated with the mutation in the glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP)<br>\ngene specifically associated with the astrocytes.\nThe abnormalities of astrocytes are also associated<br>\nwith some developmental disorders of the nervous system.\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ConclusionSummary\"><\/span>Conclusion\/Summary<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Astrocytes are the<strong> star-shaped supporting cells present<\/strong> in the brain and spinal cord. They are the most abundant and diverse glial cells present in the CNS.<\/p>\nThey are the star-shaped cells having a central body<br>\nwith radiating protoplasmic processes. They may be protoplasmic or fibrous in<br>\nshape.\n<p><strong>Protoplasmic astrocytes<\/strong> have abundant organelles and small branching protoplasmic processes. They are abundantly present in the grey matter.<\/p>\n<p>Fibrous astrocytes have large unbranched protoplasmic processes. They have limited organelles and are abundantly present in the white matter of CNS.<\/p>\nLike other cells of the CNS, they are also derived<br>\nfrom the neuro-epithelium of the neural tube.\n<p><strong>Astrocytes<\/strong> perform a number of functions that are essential for the normal functioning of neurons. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Regulation of ionic concentration<\/li>\n<li>Providing nutrients to the neurons<\/li>\n<li>Removing the metabolites and waste<br>\nproducts<\/li>\n<li>Contributing in the blood-brain<br>\nbarrier<\/li>\n<li>Repair of the CNS<\/li>\n<li>Regulation of blood flow<\/li>\n<li>Physical support to the developing<br>\nbrain<\/li>\n<li>Synapse structure and functioning<\/li>\n<li>Formation of glial limiting membrane<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThe pathologies of astrocytes include astrocytomas,<br>\nthe most abundant tumors of the brain.\n<p>They also include other diseases such as Alzheimer\u2019s disease and Alexander\u2019s disease, etc as well as some developmental disorders of the CNS.&nbsp; <\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span>References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>&nbsp;Fiacco TA, Agulhon C, McCarthy KD<br>\n(October 2008). &#8220;Sorting out astrocyte physiology from<br>\npharmacology&#8221;.&nbsp;Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology.&nbsp;<strong>49<\/strong>&nbsp;(1):<br>\n151\u201374.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1146%2Fannurev.pharmtox.011008.145602\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.1146\/annurev.pharmtox.011008.145602<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/18834310\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>18834310<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Venkatesh K, Srikanth L,<br>\nVengamma B, Chandrasekhar C, Sanjeevkumar A, Mouleshwara Prasad BC, Sarma PV<br>\n(2013). &#8220;In vitro differentiation of cultured human CD34+ cells into<br>\nastrocytes&#8221;.&nbsp;Neurology India.&nbsp;<strong>61<\/strong>&nbsp;(4): 383\u20138.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103%2F0028-3886.117615\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.4103\/0028-3886.117615<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/24005729\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>24005729<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>&nbsp;Rowitch DH, Kriegstein AR (November 2010).<br>\n&#8220;Developmental genetics of vertebrate glial-cell<br>\nspecification&#8221;.&nbsp;Nature.&nbsp;<strong>468<\/strong>&nbsp;(7321): 214\u201322.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bibcode\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Bibcode<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/ui.adsabs.harvard.edu\/abs\/2010Natur.468..214R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>2010Natur.468..214R<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038%2Fnature09611\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.1038\/nature09611<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/21068830\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>21068830<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>&nbsp;Muroyama Y, Fujiwara Y, Orkin SH,<br>\nRowitch DH (November 2005). &#8220;Specification of astrocytes by bHLH protein<br>\nSCL in a restricted region of the neural tube&#8221;.&nbsp;Nature.&nbsp;<strong>438<\/strong>(7066):<br>\n360\u20133.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bibcode\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Bibcode<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/ui.adsabs.harvard.edu\/abs\/2005Natur.438..360M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>2005Natur.438..360M<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038%2Fnature04139\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.1038\/nature04139<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/16292311\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>16292311<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>&nbsp;Hochstim C, Deneen B, Lukaszewicz A,<br>\nZhou Q, Anderson DJ (May 2008).&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2394859\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>&#8220;Identification<br>\nof positionally distinct astrocyte subtypes whose identities are specified by a<br>\nhomeodomain code&#8221;<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;Cell.&nbsp;<strong>133<\/strong>&nbsp;(3):<br>\n510\u201322.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016%2Fj.cell.2008.02.046\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.1016\/j.cell.2008.02.046<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Central\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMC<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2394859\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>2394859<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/18455991\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>18455991<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>&nbsp;Cakir T, Alsan S, Sayba\u015fili H, Akin A,<br>\nUlgen KO (December 2007).&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2246127\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>&#8220;Reconstruction<br>\nand flux analysis of coupling between metabolic pathways of astrocytes and<br>\nneurons: application to cerebral hypoxia&#8221;<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;Theoretical Biology &amp; Medical Modelling.&nbsp;<strong>4<\/strong>&nbsp;(1):<br>\n48.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Digital_object_identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>doi<\/em><\/a>:<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186%2F1742-4682-4-48\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>10.1186\/1742-4682-4-48<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Central\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMC<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2246127\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>2246127<\/em><\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/PubMed_Identifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>PMID<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/18070347\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>18070347<\/em><\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Table of Contents Boost Your Brain with Mind Lab Pro Benefits StructureTypes Fibrous astrocytes:Protoplasmic astrocytes:Embryologic DevelopmentFunctionsRegulation of ionic concentration:Physical support:Blood-brain &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Astrocytes\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/astrocytes\/#more-443\" aria-label=\"Read more about Astrocytes\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":444,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_generate-full-width-content":"","kt_blocks_editor_width":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-443","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/human-memory.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Astrocytes-of-Brain.jpg?fit=800%2C500&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/443","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=443"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/443\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3945,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/443\/revisions\/3945"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/444"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=443"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=443"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/human-memory.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=443"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}