Link between Astrocytes and Alzheimer`s Discovered

United States: Alzheimer’s was always profiled as a disease of the Neurons or Brain cells, until, New York researchers placed a finger on the participation of Astrocytes in regulating blood flow in the brain- a direct link between Astrocytes and Alzheimer’s.

According to Neuroscientist, Dr. Maiken Nedergaard, of the University of Rochester Medical Center, this path-breaking research signals the potential contribution of Astrocytes (Star shaped cells) in triggering certain sections of the brain into activity, whenever required. This is in contrast with the preconceived role of Astrocytes, in maintaining a healthy environment for the Neurons. The findings of the recent study, published in the Journal of Nature Neuroscience, indicate the role of Astrocytes in many human diseases.