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Astrocytes are a type of glial cells which are found in the central nervous system primarily in the brain and the spinal cord.
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Primarily the brain and the spinal cord.
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They play essential roles in supporting and regulating the functions of neurons and overall health of the nervous system.
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The first function is the structural support.
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Astrocytes provide structural support for the neurons.
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They form a network of fine processes that sheath the neurons or that unsheath neurons and help in holding them within place in brain and the spinal cord.
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Secondly, they help in the maintenance of the blood -brain barrier.
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Astrocytes contribute to the formation of maintenance of the blood -brain barrier which is a selective barrier that controls the passage of substances between the bloodstream and the brain.
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That controls the passage of substances between the blood and the brain.
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This helps in protection from harmful pathogens and harmful molecules.
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Next is that they help in the regulation of extracellular ion and neurotransmitter levels.
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Astrocytes play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ions and neurotransmitters in the extracellular space.
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This may actively help in taking up excess neurotransmitters to help regulate synaptic activity...