What is the Role of Astrocytes in Neurodegenerative Diseases?
Astrocytes have a dual role in neurodegenerative diseases. In conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, astrocytes can become reactive, a state known as astrogliosis. This can lead to both protective and detrimental effects. Reactive astrocytes can form glial scars that inhibit axonal regeneration, but they also release factors that can promote neuron survival and repair.
