Chapter: Human

Neuroanatomy(Fundamental and Clinical):

Introduction to Neuroanatomy

Astrocytes

These are small star-shaped cells that give off a number of processes.
Astrocytes

These are small star-shaped cells that give off a number of processes (Fig. 1.23).
The processes are often flattened into leaf-like laminae that may partly surround
neurons and separate them from other neurons. The processes frequently end in
expansions in relation to blood vessels or in relation to the surface of the brain.
Small swellings called gliosomes are present on the processes of astrocytes. These
swellings are rich in mitochondria. Fibrous astrocytes are seen mainly in white
matter. Their processes are thin and are asymmetrical. Protoplasmic astrocytes are,
on the other hand, seen mainly in grey matter. Their processes are thicker than
those of fibrous astrocytes and are symmetrical. Intermediate forms between
fibrous and protoplasmic astrocytes are also present. Protoplasmic extensions of
astrocytes surround nodes of Ranvier, but the significance of this is not understood.

The processes of astrocytes are united to those of other astrocytes through gap
junctions. Astrocytes communicate with one another through calcium channels.
Such communication is believed to play a role in regulation of synaptic activity,
and in metabolism of neurotransmitters and of neuromodulators.

Astrocytes play a role in maintenance of the blood brain barrier. Substances

secreted by end feet of astrocytes probably assist in maintaining a membrane, the
glia limitans externa, which covers the exposed surfaces of the brain. They also
help to maintain the basal laminae of blood vessels that they come in contact with.