EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Astrocytes play a critical role in normal function of the mammalian nervous system. Astrocytes regulate synaptic transmission and plasticity, protect neurons against toxic compounds, and support metabolically to ensure their optimal functioning.

Detailed explanation-2: -The blood-brain barrier is the barrier between the cerebral capillary blood and the interstitial fluid of the brain. It is made up of capillary endothelial cells and basement membrane, neuroglial membrane, and glial podocytes, i.e., projections of astrocytes.

Detailed explanation-3: -Figure 2: Cellular constituents of the blood–brain barrier. The barrier is formed by capillary endothelial cells, surrounded by basal lamina and astrocytic perivascular endfeet. Astrocytes provide the cellular link to the neurons.

Detailed explanation-4: -Astrocytes, a type of central nervous system glial cell, play important roles for maintaining brain homeostasis, such as uptake of glutamate and GABA, provision of nutrients from blood vessels to neurons and control of extracellular pH1, 2.