Astrocytes: inexplicable cells in neurodegeneration

Abstract

Astrocytes are the most explored non-neuronal cells in the brain under neurophysiological and neurodegenerative conditions. Extensive research has been done to understand their specific role during neuropathological conditions but still the existing findings could not conclude their mechanism of action and their specific role in neurodegenerative conditions. This review discusses their physiological and pathological roles, their activation, morphological alterations and their probable use in search of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

KEYWORDS:

• astrocytes
• astrocyte activation
• reactive gliosis
• neurodegeneration
• neurodegenerative diseases

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

INSTITUTIONAL