New OHSU research reveals an important role in brain function involving an abundant, but often-ignored, star-shaped type of glial cell known as astrocytes. Scientists say the discovery suggests new approaches to treat or prevent neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s diseases. (OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks)
An often-ignored type of cell in the brain plays a dynamic and surprisingly complex role in our ability to process information, according to new research from Oregon Health & Science University.
The study, published today in the journal Science, provides direct evidence for the real-time action of a star-shaped type of glial cell, known as astrocytes, in the live brains of fruit flies. The abundant cell type — roughly 35% of all cells in the human brain — appears to be a key…