The arrangement of astrocytes is related to the chemical and physical interactions with other brain cells.
Astrocytes contribute to the production and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier.
These cells were later named astrocytes for their star-like shape.
Juan Gaertner/Science Photo Library/Getty Images
Anatomy
Astrocytes are star-shaped cells found in the brain.
Function
Astrocytes have a variety of functions within the brain and central nervous system as a whole.
These ions play an integral role in the functioning of each neuron by providing cells with electrolytes and energy.
Astrocytes also improve communications between brain cells and regulate the metabolic processes within the brain.
This dysfunction of astrocytes is called an astrocytopathy.
In this instance, immunoglobulin is provided intravenously, or via infusion through the arm.
These immunosuppressants assist in lessening the body’s immune response and addressing the astrocytopathy from the source.
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