Star-shaped supporting cells in the brain and nervous system that provide nutrients, maintain proper ion balance, and support the function of neurons.
From Greek 'astron' (star) + 'glia' (glue). Named for their distinctive star-like appearance under a microscope, these cells were identified in the late 19th century as crucial brain support cells.
Astroglia aren't just passive brain-filler—they actively communicate with neurons, manage energy, and clean up debris; modern neuroscience has discovered they're far more important to brain function than scientists once thought.
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