Functions of Astrocytes

1. Contributes to the formation of the blood-brain barrier

A=astrocyte; N=neurite; BM=basement membrane or basal lamina; P=pericyte; arrow=gap junctions between astrocytes

Functions of Astrocytes

2. Plays an important role in homeostasis of the neuronal microenvironment, e.g., removes K+ ions from the extracellular space, and uptake of neurotransmitters and other metabolites, maintains water balance

Michal Slezak and Frank W. Pfrieger