Astroglial Cells: Emerging Therapeutic Targets in the Management of Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) represents a significant health concern, necessitating advanced therapeutic interventions. This detailed review explores the critical roles of astrocytes, key cellular constituents of the central nervous system (CNS), in both the pathophysiology and possible rehabilitation of TBI. Following injury, astrocytes exhibit reactive transformations, differentiating into pro-inflammatory (A1) and neuroprotective (A2) phenotypes. This paper elucidates the interactions of astrocytes with neurons, their role in neuroinflammation, and the potential for their therapeutic exploitation. Emphasized strategies encompass the utilization of endocannabinoid and calcium signaling pathways, hormone-based treatments like 17β-estradiol, biological therapies employing anti-HBGB1 monoclonal antibodies, gene therapy targeting Connexin 43, and the innovative technique of astrocyte transplantation as a means to repair damaged neural tissues.

Aquaporin 2 in Cerebral Edema: Potential Prognostic Marker in Craniocerebral Injuries

“…Numerous studies investigate the function of AQPs in TBI, with most focusing on the role of AQP4, which is predominantly found in astrocytes, particularly concentrated in their endfeet, facilitating bidirectional water movement in response to changes in osmotic conditions [ 12 ]. Fuqiang Guo’s team established a distinct correlation between AQP4 mRNA expression and the onset of secondary brain edema and damage following injury.…”

“…Its main function is to regulate water reabsorption, thereby controlling the concentration of urine [ 11 ]. Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) is predominantly found in astrocytes, particularly concentrated in their endfeet, facilitating bidirectional water movement in response to changes in osmotic conditions [ 12 ]. Aquaporin-9 (AQP9) was identified in tanycytes, astrocytes, dopaminergic neurons, and microglia, and it is hypothesized to be involved in neuroinflammation [ 13 ].…”

Aquaporins: Gatekeepers of Fluid Dynamics in Traumatic Brain Injury

“…CNS injury induces astrogliosis, marked by increased AQP4, GFAP, and V1aR expression. V1aR inhibition reduces brain edema and astrocyte swelling, suggesting its role in cytotoxic edema [ 106 , 116 , 117 , 118 ]. Oxidative stress further contributes by modifying AQP4 through processes like carbonylation, affecting its water transport efficiency and cellular homeostasis [ 119 ].…”

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Insights into Spinal Glomangioma of a Unique Intradural, Extramedullary Presentation—Systematic Review

“…Perivascular cells, or pericytes, are cells situated along the walls of blood vessels, originating primarily from mesenchymal stem cells during embryonic development from the mesoderm, the middle layer of embryonic germ cells [ 26 , 27 ]. In certain organs, such as the central nervous system, pericytes may also arise from neuroectodermal cells [ 28 , 29 ]. In adults, these cells can differentiate from local precursor cells or stem cells, including those in the bone marrow, and are capable of transforming into various cell types like chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and adipocytes.…”