Astrocytes are important cells in the brain that help support neurons in many ways. Here are some of the main things they do:
Providing Nutrients: Astrocytes help supply nutrients to neurons. They take sugar from the blood and turn it into a form of energy, called lactate, that neurons can use.
Balancing Ions: Astrocytes keep the balance of ions in check by managing potassium levels outside of neurons. When neurons are active, astrocytes grab extra potassium to keep everything working properly.
Controlling Neurotransmitters: Astrocytes manage the communication between neurons by absorbing neurotransmitters like glutamate. They can take away about 90% of the glutamate released, which prevents damage to neurons.
Protecting the Brain: Astrocytes wrap around blood vessels and help maintain the blood-brain barrier. This barrier is very important because it keeps harmful substances out of the brain.
Helping with Learning and Memory: Astrocytes release special chemicals called gliotransmitters, like ATP and D-serine. These help improve communication between neurons and support learning and memory.
In short, astrocytes are vital for keeping neurons healthy and ensuring that everything in the brain works smoothly. They create a balanced environment that is essential for signaling between neurons.
Astrocytes are important cells in the brain that help support neurons in many ways. Here are some of the main things they do:
Providing Nutrients: Astrocytes help supply nutrients to neurons. They take sugar from the blood and turn it into a form of energy, called lactate, that neurons can use.
Balancing Ions: Astrocytes keep the balance of ions in check by managing potassium levels outside of neurons. When neurons are active, astrocytes grab extra potassium to keep everything working properly.
Controlling Neurotransmitters: Astrocytes manage the communication between neurons by absorbing neurotransmitters like glutamate. They can take away about 90% of the glutamate released, which prevents damage to neurons.
Protecting the Brain: Astrocytes wrap around blood vessels and help maintain the blood-brain barrier. This barrier is very important because it keeps harmful substances out of the brain.
Helping with Learning and Memory: Astrocytes release special chemicals called gliotransmitters, like ATP and D-serine. These help improve communication between neurons and support learning and memory.
In short, astrocytes are vital for keeping neurons healthy and ensuring that everything in the brain works smoothly. They create a balanced environment that is essential for signaling between neurons.