GENERAL HISTOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Astrocytes are essential for the formation and maintenance of the BBB by providing secreted factors that lead to the adequate association between the cells of the BBB and the formation of strong tight junctions.

Detailed explanation-2: -The broad role of astrocytes is to maintain brain homeostasis and neuronal metabolism. It’s hypothesized that the “star-shape” supports the neurons and creates the microarchitecture of the brain parenchyma illustrating that form-follows-function rule seen across biology.

Detailed explanation-3: -Astrocytes not only regulate blood flow, but also transfer mitochondria to neurons, and supply the building blocks of neurotransmitters, which fuel neuronal metabolism [2, 11, 57]. In addition, astrocytes can phagocytose synapses, alter neurotrophin secretion, and clear debris [14, 58].

Detailed explanation-4: -Astrocytes and microglia are resident cells of the CNS that contribute to the formation of the BBB.