Astrocytes in Alzheimer's Disease: Pathological Significance and Molecular Pathways

Astrocytes perform a wide variety of essential functions defining normal operation of the nervous system and are active contributors to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's among others. Recent data provide compelling evidence that distinct astrocyte states are associated with specific stages of Alzheimer ' s disease. The advent of transcriptomics technologies enables rapid progress in the characterisation of such pathological astrocyte states. In this review, we provide an overview of the origin, main functions, molecular and morphological features of astrocytes in physiological as well as pathological conditions related to Alzheimer ' s disease. We will also explore the main roles of astrocytes in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer ' s disease and summarize main transcriptional changes and altered molecular pathways observed in astrocytes during the course of the disease.

Automated summary

Astrocytes are essential for normal nervous system operation and play active roles in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. Recent data shows that different astrocyte states are linked to specific stages of Alzheimer's disease, with transcriptomics technologies aiding in characterizing these pathological states.