The role of glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases. Part 1. Characteristics and physiological functions

• Published in: Farmacja Polska Vol. 77; no. 12; pp. 745 - 751
• Main Authors: Maszczyk, Mateusz, Lechowska, Sara, Wrześniok, Dorota
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English; Polish
• Published: Polish Pharmaceutical Society 01.02.2022
• Subjects: demyelinating diseases; gliosis; neurodegenerative diseases; neuroglia
• ISSN: 0014-8261
• DOI: 10.32383/farmpol/146889

The nervous system is composed of two dominant types of cells – neurons and glial cells. They differ from each other both morphologically and physiologically. Glia comprises a broad variety of cells, including oligodendrocytes, microglia, and the most heterogenic group of glial cells, which are astrocytes. These groups of cells perform many indispensable roles that are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Astrocytes are involved in the formation of the blood-brain barrier and support synaptogenesis. They also participate in the signal transmission between neural cells and take part in maintaining homeostasis in neural tissue by regulating ion concentration in the intercellular space and water distribution. Other glial cells, oligodendrocytes, form the myelin sheaths surrounding axons, which facilitate signal transmission along neurons. These cells also provide them with metabolic support. In turn, microglial cells are engaged in the removal of the dead cell remains, supporting the rebuilding of connections between nerve cells, and also detection of antigens or damage in neural tissue and hence the activation of the immune system. A significant problem of public health, in particular of Western societies, is associated with neurodegenerative diseases. They are a group of inherent or acquired nervous system disorders, the risk of which increases with age. Throughout neurodegeneration, there is a progressive decrease in the number of neurons in various regions of the brain. Damage developing over time to specific structures of the central nervous system results in increasing psychological and motor dysfunctions. The possible causes lying behind neurodegenerative diseases are related to the presence of abnormal proteins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. In the following article, we have outlined the issues associated with glial cells, including their significance, division, and physiological functions, as well as the subject of neurodegenerative diseases.