Reactive Astrogliosis: Role in Alzheimer's Disease

Astrocytes, the star shaped glial cells, are known to possess supportive and homeostatic role for the neurons. Recently, reactive gliosis, which involves alterations in functioning and phenotype of different glial cells, has been implicated in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Studies have revealed that astrocyte response to gross tissue damaging injury leads to anisomorphic astrogliosis reinforcing a cascade of events, eventually increasing the pathogenesis of AD and many other neurodegenerative disorders. This review presents the involvement of reactive astrocytes in reduced A beta clearance and in neuro-neglect hypothesis. Understanding of reactivity and fundamental biology of astrocytes may open new avenues of alternative treatments and therapeutic strategies targeting astrocytes and related events for the treatment of AD.