Control of Astrocytes Function and Phenotype: Role in Neuropathology

Dear colleagues,

Until a couple of decades ago, astrocytes were underrated cells, with experimental studies relying on neurocentric approaches. However, over recent years, more functions and interactions between astrocytes and other cells have been revealed. Through an amazing multiplicity of functions encompassing trophic and energy support, maintenance of synapses, or control of neurogenesis, among others, astrocytes perform key functions in the maintenance and protection of the CNS. On the other hand, increasing data suggest that the dysregulation of astrocytes, or their senescence, may also have a significant contribution to pathological situations. Moreover, during the last few years, it has been shown that these multitasking cells display distinctive functional, morphological, and phenotypical heterogeneity across and within the regions of the CNS. Although the control of astrocyte diversity as well as its contribution to neuropathology is still poorly characterized, it seems increasingly evident that the modulation of astrocyte properties is a promising strategy to induce neuroprotection and neurorepair. However, to achieve this purpose, it is crucial to continue unveiling the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control astrocyte diversity.

This Special Issue on “Control of astrocytes function and phenotype: role in neuropathology” from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences aims to provide a summary of the ultimate advances in this area, with special emphasis on the molecular mechanisms through which it may be possible to modulate astrocytes' protective or deleterious effects on brain disorders. This Special Issue will publish original research articles as well as comprehensive reviews, including current understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in astrocytes modulation.

Dr. Graça Baltazar
Dr. Cláudio Roque
Guest Editors

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