释义 |
astrocyte noun[ C ] anatomy specializeduk /ˈæs.trə.saɪt/ us /ˈæs.trə.saɪt/ a star-shaped cell that helps control several brain functions: As support cells in the brain, astrocytes communicate with capillaries, neurons, and other astrocytes. Microglia and astrocytes are important cell types that actively modulate neuronal function. If astrocytes do not clear away enough amyloid beta from the brain during sleep, plaques may form and may cause Alzheimer's disease. The genetic mutation behind Alexander's disease takes place in astrocytes, one of the major cell types of the central nervous system. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases The brain & nervous system abducens nerve abducent nerve accessory nerve alexithymia allism grey matter hemispheric hemispherical hindbrain hippocampus neurogenic neurogenically neuroglia neuroglial neurohormonal reticular formation rhinencephalon rhombencephalon right brain right-brained |