The Power of Neuroglia in Driving Brain Function

Neuroglial cells are essential regulators of central nervous system (CNS) function in development, brain function, and disease. This mini-review summarizes recent advances that reveal how astrocytes, oligodendrocyte lineage cells, and microglia contribute to key brain processes. Astrocytes modulate synaptic plasticity and memory through gliotransmitter release, calcium signaling, and circuit-specific interactions, with dysfunctions implicated in disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression. Oligodendrocytes and their precursors influence cognition through myelination, and disruptions in myelin plasticity and oligodendrogenesis can lead to significant cognitive deficits. Microglia, beyond their classical immune roles, are emerging as central sculptors of neural circuits, regulating synaptic pruning, neuronal survival, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Their dysfunction is increasingly associated with both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Collectively, these findings highlight the powerful and multifaceted roles of neuroglial cells in shaping brain function and pathology. As tools to study and manipulate neuroglial activity continue to evolve, targeting neuroglial mechanisms offers exciting new therapeutic opportunities for a wide range of CNS disorders.