Question

what are astrocytes and mention their significance​

Answer 1

Explanation:

• Astrocytes are specialized glial cells that outnumber neurons by over fivefold. They contiguously tile the entire central nervous system (CNS) and exert many essential complex functions in the healthy CNS. ... Transgenic mouse models are dissecting specific aspects of reactive astrocytosis and glial scar formation in vivo.

Answer 2

Answer:

[tex][/tex] What are astrocytes and mention their ssignificance?

Astrocytes (from Ancient Greek ἄστρον, ástron, "star" + κύτος, kútos, "cavity", "cell"), also known collectively as astroglia, are characteristic star-shaped glial cells in the brain and spinal cord.

They perform many functions, including

1. biochemical support of endothelial cells that form the blood–brain barrier,
2. provision of nutrients to the nervous tissue, maintenance of extracellular ion balance and a role in the repair and scarring process of the brain and spinal cord following traumatic injuries.
3. The proportion of astrocytes in the brain is not well defined; depending on the counting technique used, studies have found that the astrocyte proportion varies by region and ranges from 20% to 40% of all glia.

Significance

Astrocytes, which populate the grey and white mater of the brain and the spinal cord are highly heterogeneous in their morphology and function. These cells are primarily responsible for homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS).