https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/new-type-brain-cell-astrocyte/
Scientists discover a new type of brain cell
- There are hints that it could lead to new treatments for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other brain disorders.
- An image of a neuron with a blue light coming out of it.
- Most of the cells in the brain are either neurons or glial cells. The former send messages, while the latter protect the former. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell found near synapses. Researchers believe they have discovered a new type of astrocyte that actively participates in neurotransmission, making them a sort of hybrid between neurons and glial cells.
Kristin Houser
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A new brain cell: Researchers at the Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering and the University of Lausanne believe they’ve definitively proven that some astrocytes do actively participate in neurotransmission, making them a sort of hybrid of neurons and glial cells.
According to the researchers, this third type of brain cell, which they call a “glutamatergic astrocyte,” could offer a way to treat Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other disorders of the nervous system.
“Its discovery opens up immense research prospects,” said study co-director Andrea Volterra.
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Once again demonstrating how little we really know about anything.
Hope this research leads to new treatments for brain disorders before I need them.
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Reinke Faces Life 