Neuroprotective and detrimental effects of astrocytes on amyloid plaque formation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v12i1.4295Keywords:
Alzheimer's Disease, Astrocytes, Microglia, Aβ plaqueAbstract
In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains, reactive astrocytes and microglia are frequently seen around amyloid plaques. The functions of microglia have been extensively studied, such as the neuroprotective barrier they form to prevent plaque growth and their release of inflammatory cytokines. However, the functions of astrocytes are less well known. Here I review the ongoing research on astrocytic functions around plaques. Recent studies suggest that astrocytes play an important role in downregulating Aβ production through the production of cholesterol and reducing plaque deposition through Aβ uptake and clearance. Astrocytes also interact with microglia through the clusterin and C3 pathways, possibly altering Aβ fibril formation and microglia phagocytosis. On the other hand, astrocytes contribute to elevated glutamate and GABA levels, potentially causing excitotoxicity and accelerating cognitive decline. Finally, I review two possible therapeutic treatments, ceftriaxone and selegiline, for alleviating AD pathology by targeting astrocyte functions. Given their crucial and complex roles in AD, a better understand of astrocyte functions would contribute to a greater understanding of AD progression and uncover new therapeutic targets.
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