Astrocytes and Their Role in Psychiatric Disorders

Abstract

Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system. They are recognized as active participants in neurodevelopment, neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. Astrocytes are increasingly associated with the modulation of neuronal circuits and regulation of neurotransmitter balance. The dysregulation of these functions may contribute to the progression of psychiatric illnesses. The understanding of astrocytes and their relation to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder is constantly evolving. Targeting astrocytes in the development of therapeutic interventions for psychiatric disorders is an emerging avenue of exploration. This paper discusses the exact function of astrocytes, their part in synaptic plasticity and how they play a crucial role in the development and presence of psychiatric illnesses, specifically schizophrenia and mood disorders.