Title:The Essential Role of Astrocytes in Neurodegeneration and
Neuroprotection
Volume: 23
Issue: 9
Author(s): Federico López Couselo, Julieta Saba, Lila Carniglia, Daniela Durand, Mercedes Lasaga and Carla Caruso*
Affiliation:
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos
Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Keywords:
Astrocytes, neurodegenerative diseases, glial reactivity, brain homeostasis, neuroprotection, neurotoxicity.
Abstract: Astrocytes are glial cells that perform several fundamental physiological functions within
the brain. They can control neuronal activity and levels of ions and neurotransmitters, and release
several factors that modulate the brain environment. Over the past few decades, our knowledge of
astrocytes and their functions has rapidly evolved. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by
selective degeneration of neurons, increased glial activation, and glial dysfunction. Given the significant
role played by astrocytes, there is growing interest in their potential therapeutic role. However,
defining their contribution to neurodegeneration is more complex than was previously thought. This
review summarizes the main functions of astrocytes and their involvement in neurodegenerative
diseases, highlighting their neurotoxic and neuroprotective ability.