Neuroglia in ageing and disease
Alexei Verkhratsky1, José J Rodríguez, Vladimir Parpura
1Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK, Alexej.Verkhratsky@manchester.ac.uk.
Glial cells in the brain undergo significant changes in shape, number, and function during brain diseases and aging. These alterations impact neurotransmitter balance and brain defense mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Proper brain function relies on neuron-glia interactions.
- Glial cells are crucial for maintaining brain homeostasis.
- Glial cells are implicated in various neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the morpho-functional changes in glial cells during brain pathology and aging.
- To understand the impact of these changes on brain function.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on glial cell changes in brain disorders.
- Analysis of morphological and functional alterations in glial cells.
Main Results:
- Glial cells exhibit changes in size, shape, and number in pathological states.
- Functional changes include alterations in neurotransmitter (e.g., glutamate) homeostasis and defense mechanisms.
- Glial cells also change morphologically and functionally with normal brain aging.
Conclusions:
- Glial cell alterations are a hallmark of brain pathology and aging.
- These changes significantly affect overall brain health and function.
- Understanding glial cell dynamics is key to addressing neurological disorders.
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