Language
English
Publication Date
9-1-2025
Journal
Trends in Neurosciences
DOI
10.1016/j.tins.2025.06.009
PMID
40695641
PMCID
PMC12313154
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
7-22-2026
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Abstract
Astrocytes are glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that perform an array of diverse functions that are essential for brain activity. Studies on the functional diversity of astrocytes suggest that such diversity may be derived from specialized populations. We provide an overview of the current state of research on astrocyte diversity and outline current challenges and knowledge gaps while also examining the developmental origins of these populations and how their interactions with neurons contribute to their functional heterogeneity. We highlight recent studies that provide evidence for functionally diverse astrocyte populations under homeostatic conditions and as an adaptive response to a range of experiences. This review provides a framework for understanding the dynamic and heterogeneous features of astrocytes across the CNS.
Keywords
Astrocytes, Animals, Humans, Neurons, Central Nervous System, Brain, Neural Circuit, Development, Brain, Cellular Diversity, Adaptation, Homeostasis
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Wookbong Kwon, Michael R Williamson, and Benjamin Deneen, "A functional perspective on astrocyte heterogeneity" (2025). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 8008.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/8008