Development and diversity of astrocytes

2025/07/01 by Michael R. Williamson, Sanjana Murali, Benjamin Deneen · 2 voices · 2 citations
Immunology and Microbiology · Neuroscience · #Phagocytosis and Immune Regulation #Immune cells in cancer #Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration Mechanisms

paper · doi:10.1242/dev.204705

Abstract

Proper development of the central nervous system (CNS) depends on astrocytes, which are the most abundant glial cells in the CNS. Here, we provide an overview of astrocyte ontogeny and morphogenesis, highlighting mechanisms that regulate astrocyte development. In addition, we describe the roles of astrocytes in regulating the development of other CNS cell types, with emphasis on neural circuits and vascular networks. We also discuss evidence for astrocyte diversity and its implications for CNS development. Finally, we pose open questions related to astrocyte development and its intersection with astrocyte diversity.

Cited by

• Astrocyte heterogeneity in the neocortex: developmental origins, molecular diversity, and functional implications. [europepmc]
• Phosphatidylserine exposure by developing astrocytes initiates microglia-mediated developmental cell death [europepmc]

Discussions

• Super interesting review on astrocyte development by @m-r-williamson.bsky.social and colleagues ! #astrocytes #glia #review [bsky, 23 points, 0 comments]
• In this 'Development at a Glance', @m-r-williamson.bsky.social, Sanjana Murali and Benjamin Deneen @bcmfromthelabs.bsky.social give an overview of astrocyte ontogeny and morphogenesis, highlighting me [bsky, 3 points, 0 comments]

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