Location of the Astrocyte
In CNS, astrocytes are found in a distributed manner in different regions and layers as well. It forms a special network structure that interacts with the neurons, blood vessels, and other glial cells as well. Here are some major places where the astrocytes are found as mentioned below.
- Gray Matter: Astrocytes are mostly found in the gray matter regions of the brain and spinal cord. They create a close structure with the neurons and synapses.
- White Matter: Astrocytes are also present in white matter that provides the structural support to the axons with a long projection. It helps to transmit the signals over long distances as well.
- Brain Regions: Astrocytes are present in the different regions of the brain including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, and the mainstream. The density and work may vary based on the region.
- Perivascular Spaces: Astrocytic endfeet wraps the blood vessels to form the blood-brain barrier of BBB. It helps to regulate the exchange of different substances between the bloodstream and the brain parenchyma.
- Spinal Cord: In the spinal cord, astrocytes provide the structural support and modulate the synaptic transmission.
Astrocyte
Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that makes up the major cells of the human central nervous system (CNS). Astrocyte cells can be found in both gray, and white matter of the brain, spinal cord, and neurons. Understanding the Astrocyte structure and function helps in understanding their role in supporting neuronal health and communication within the brain. In this article, we will cover astrocytes in detail.
Table of Content
- Astrocyte
- Structure of Astrocyte
- Cell Body of Astrocyte
- Astrocyte Endfeet
- Intermediate Filaments and Gap Function
- Diagram of Astrocyte
- Location of the Astrocyte
- Types of Astrocyte
- Functions of Astrocyte
- Astrocytes vs Oligodendrocytes
- Schwann Cell and Astrocyte