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Book

Histology, Astrocytes

Dereck C. Wei  1 , Elizabeth H. Morrison  2
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.
.
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Book

Histology, Astrocytes

Dereck C. Wei et al.
Free Books & Documents

Excerpt

Astrocytes are a subtype of glial cells that make up the majority of cells in the human central nervous system (CNS). They perform metabolic, structural, homeostatic, and neuroprotective tasks such as clearing excess neurotransmitters, stabilizing and regulating the blood-brain barrier, and promoting synapse formation. Unlike neurons and other cells in the nervous system, they do not conduct electrical signals. Instead, they ensure the continued function of their signal-relaying counterparts. Due to their diverse array of responsibilities, science has viewed them as both targets for treatment and causes of disease. Thus, it is crucial for clinicians to understand the histology and purpose of astrocytes and to identify their roles in both healthy and pathological states.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure: Dereck Wei declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Elizabeth Morrison declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

References

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